History: The Republic of Niger lies in the heart of West Africa. Formerly part of French West Africa, Niger became fully independent on August 3, 1960. A new constitution was adopted by referendum in December '92. Niger's first democratically elected President Mahamane Ousmane was ousted in a coup in January, 1996 by military ruler Ibrahim Mainassara. Elections were held in 1999.

Agriculture: Niger is an agricultural country with very limited resources. The principal crops are millet, peanuts and cotton. Cattle-breeding is the next most important occupation of the people.

Minerals: Uranium, coal, iron.