Niger · Overview
The legal system of Niger
A French-tradition civil-law system under military-led government since July 2023, when the 2010 constitution was suspended and the CNSP assumed power. OHADA commercial law continues to apply. Personal status is governed largely by customary and Islamic rules, as Niger never enacted a comprehensive family code.
Legal tradition
Niger belongs to the civil law (french tradition) tradition. A French-tradition civil-law system under military-led government since July 2023, when the 2010 constitution was suspended and the CNSP assumed power. OHADA commercial law continues to apply. Personal status is governed largely by customary and Islamic rules, as Niger never enacted a comprehensive family code.
How power is divided
Under the suspended constitution, a semi-presidential system with a President, Prime Minister and National Assembly. Currently executive and legislative authority is concentrated in the CNSP and an appointed government.
Where law comes from
- Orders of the CNSP
- Primary instruments of the current governing authority.
- Constitution of 2010
- Suspended; parts referenced in transitional instruments.
- OHADA Uniform Acts
- Directly applicable commercial law.
- Codes
- Civil, penal, criminal procedure, labour and rural codes.
- Customary and Islamic rules
- Govern most marriage, divorce and inheritance questions.
The legal profession
Avocats admitted through the Barreau du Niger after a law degree and traineeship; notaires and huissiers are separate offices.
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