Say

Say

Say, also known as Saayi, is a historic town located in southwest Niger, on the banks of the Niger River. It serves as the capital of the Say Department in the Tillabéri Region. Originally a small Songhai settlement, Say's transformation into a prominent center for Islamic learning began in the nineteenth century with the arrival of the Fulani marabout Alfa Mohamed Diobo. He established the Emirate of Say and significantly influenced the town's cultural and religious landscape. The economy of Say is primarily driven by agriculture, herding, and small-scale trade. The population is predominantly composed of Peulh, Songhai, and Zarma ethnic groups, contributing to the town's rich cultural diversity. Notably, Say is home to the Islamic University of Niger, an esteemed institution with international reach. Its establishment was sanctioned after a pivotal meeting of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference in 1974, and the university officially opened its doors in 1986. In addition to its cultural and educational significance, Say also holds potential for economic development, with the presence of iron ore reserves estimated at about 650 million metric tons. This valuable resource presents opportunities for future industrial and economic growth in the region.