On 31 May 2026, the Embassy of Italy in Niamey celebrated the 80th anniversary of the Italian Republic with a reception held on the terrace of the Grand Hôtel du Niger, attended by representatives of the Nigerien Government, local and religious authorities, members of the diplomatic corps, the Italian community, and numerous representatives of civil society.
In his address, Ambassador Roberto Orlando reviewed the main achievements of cooperation between Italy and Niger, highlighting Italy’s contribution in the fields of development, security and education. He also recalled the significance of the 80th anniversary of the Republic as a symbol of democracy, reconciliation and friendship among peoples.
The celebration was enhanced by the screening of a video dedicated to the ties between Italy and Niger, as well as by a cultural programme combining music, traditions and conviviality in a spirit that showcased the richness of Italian culture.
The event was also twinned with the fourth edition of the International Festival of Afro-Urban Music of the Niger River (FIMAUF), which attracted hundreds of people to the banks of the Niger River. The festival provided an opportunity for encounter and cultural dialogue that also involved participants in the Republic Day celebrations, creating a meaningful moment of exchange and shared experience between the two communities.
The event also featured a video message from Italian singer Jovanotti, who later expressed his support for Nigerien artists and the festival in an Instagram post, highlighting the power of music as a tool for dialogue, freedom and friendship among peoples.
