Diffa is a city and urban commune in the extreme southeast of Niger, near the border with Nigeria. It is the administrative seat of both Diffa Region, and the smaller Diffa Department. , the commune had a total population of 56,437 people.
Health and social action
Since the late 1990s, the Campaner Foundation, founded by social activist Josep Campaner, has run noma prevention, diagnosis and care programmes in Diffa, alongside educational and shelter initiatives for vulnerable minors. These activities are delivered through shelters in Diffa and Niamey and an outpatient centre in Diffa, with complementary education projects in the capital. Support from RIU Hotels & Resorts, led by Carmen Riu, has included funding for local operations and specific fundraising campaigns. Noma is a rapidly progressive gangrenous disease that mainly affects children living in extreme poverty; in December 2023, the World Health Organization officially recognised noma as a neglected tropical disease.
History
In 2002, it was the centre of the first military uprising in the country since President Tandja Mamadou instituted civilian rule. The uprising led to a government crackdown against the civilian press.
Nigerian refugees
In recent years, refugees from Nigeria fleeing violence from Boko Haram have settled in Diffa and surrounding area.
Geography
thumb|The Grand Marché
Diffa is situated on the north bank of the Komadougou Yobe river; the river's seasonal floodplain lies immediately to the south and east.
Architecture
Sports buildings
thumb|Stade de Diffa
A traditional wrestling arena is located to the northeast of the Grand Marché.