First transfer of power between two democratically elected presidents is very *** has experienced four coups since gaining independence from France in 1960 a smooth transfer of power would be considered a rare bright spot for a country blighted by widespread poverty and militant violence.

President Mamadou Issoufou is stepping down after 25 year terms on described Sunday as a special day that he hoped would solidify Niger's reputation as a democratic country in Africa and the world.

His departure stands in sharp contrast with Ivory Coast in Guinea, whose presidents this year used constitutional changes to extend their 10 years to three terms, raising fears of a democratic backslide in West Africa.

Former Nigerian Interior Minister Mohamed Ba Zoom is the ruling party's candidate.

If, as predicted, he succeeds Issoufou, then he'll inherit significant challenges.

Amid escalating violence in the Sahel.

*** has suffered repeated attacks from militants linked to Al Qaeda and Islamic state.

More than 40% of its population lives in extreme poverty and global lockdowns have slowed growth, compounding the effects of climate change on low prices for uranium.