Seyni Kountché
General Seyni Kountché | |
|---|---|
Kountché in 1983 | |
| 2nd President of Niger | |
| In office 15 April 1974 – 10 November 1987 | |
| Prime Minister | Mamane Oumarou |
| Preceded by | Hamani Diori |
| Succeeded by | Ali Saibou |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 1 July 1931 Fandou, Colony of Niger, French West Africa, Third French Republic |
| Died | 10 November 1987 (aged 56) Paris, France |
| Nationality | Nigerien |
| Political party | Military |
| Spouse | Mintou Kountché |
| Relatives | Ali Saibou (cousin) |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | France Niger |
| Branch/service | French Army Niger Army |
| Years of service | 1949–1961 (France) 1961–1987 (Niger) |
| Rank | Sergeant (France) Major General (Niger) |
Seyni Kountché (1 July 1931 – 10 November 1987) was a Nigerien military officer who led a 1974 coup d'état that deposed the government of Niger's first president, Hamani Diori. He ruled the country as military head of state from 15 April 1974 until his death on 10 November 1987. Stade Général Seyni Kountché, Niger's national stadium in Niamey, is named after him.