Niamey is the biggest city of Niger and lies on the Niger River. The major part of the country of Niger lies on the left bank of the river. According to the 2002 census report the approximate population of Niamey in Niger had been 674,950. Niamey is the capital city of Niger and is considered to be a major cultural, administrative and economic hub of the country. It is situated at 13°31’17” North and 2°6’19” East.
The major manufacturing industries of Niamey have been mentioned below:
- Bricks
- Ceramic goods
- Cement
- Weaving
It is thought that Niamey was founded in the eighteenth century but till 1890s, it did not get much importance. But soon after the French developed a colonial post the city started to grow its importance rapidly and became an one of the most important centres of Niger.
In 1926 Niamey was announced to be the capital of Niger, and the population gradually started to rise, from around 3,000 (1930) to about 30,000 (1960). In 1980 it roughly reached 250,000 whereas in 2000 the population was around 800,000. The key reason behind this rising graph is probably the immigration that took place during droughts.
There are a number of attractions in Niamey of Niger. Some of the most popular tourist destinations have been mentioned below:
- Niger National Museum
- Museum of vernacular architecture
- Craft centre
Added to this, there are also French, American and Nigerien cultural centres along with the two important market places and a traditional wrestling area.
In this city there is a Diori Hamani International Airport. Apart from this it houses Abdou Moumouni University of Niamey, the National School of Administration, both of which lies on the right bank of the river. Moreover there are institutes including IRD, ICRISAT, Centre numerique de Niamey, Hydrologic Institute and many more.
In December, 2005 Niamey hosted the Jeux de la Francophonie.
Niamey consists of a special capital district of Niger, that is bordered by the Tillaberi department.