* No Official Census: There hasn't been a recent, comprehensive census in Niger that specifically measures language proficiency.
* Multiple Languages: Niger has over 10 major languages, with Hausa being the most spoken. Many people are multilingual, speaking both their native language and French.
* Urban vs. Rural: French fluency tends to be higher in urban areas, especially among educated populations.
However, we can make some educated guesses:
* Official Language: French is Niger's official language, and it is used in government, education, and media.
* Education: French is the primary language of instruction in schools.
* Limited Fluency: While a significant portion of the population may have some exposure to French, it's likely that a large percentage are not truly fluent.
In summary, while we can't provide a specific percentage, it's safe to say that French is widely understood in Niger, particularly in urban areas and among those who have received formal education.