Long mistaken for a mix of Tuareg and Zarma-Songhay, the Tagdal language is in fact a distinct linguistic entity, spoken by the Iguedalan community – one of the oldest in Niger. Officially recognised in 2017, this language reveals a rich history shaped by migrations from the Maghreb and a profound influence on Nigerien culture and spirituality. In this exclusive interview with *Dialogue Migration*, Dr. Hama Djibi Mouhamad, president of the Association for the Promotion of the Tagdal Language in Niger (APLTN), traces the origins of his community, the challenges of identity recognition and ongoing efforts to promote Tagdal. Blending historical memory, social advocacy and educational aspirations, his account sheds light on a little-known facet of the national heritage. A must-read for anyone seeking to understand the cultural and political dynamics shaping contemporary Niger…