Silver and dark green enamel five-pointed star, each arm bifurcated with ball-tipped finials, a three-pointed dagger between each arm, on swivel suspension in the form of two stalks of millet with ears supporting a laterally-pierced ball; the face with a circular central gilt medallion imposed bearing an Agadès cross within a dark green ring inscribed in gilt letters ‘REPUBLIQUE DU NIGER’, each arm of the star with two green enamel panels to create the effect of a five-pointed silver star; the reverse plain with a circular central medallion imposed, the gilt centre with the head of a bull face-on, a five-pointed dark green enamel star above, within a dark green ring inscribed in gilt letters ‘FRATERNITE • TRAVAIL • PROGRES’ (Brotherhood, Work, Progress, the motto of the Republic of Niger); on original ribbon mounted for wear in the French style.
The Order was instituted on 24 July 1961 to reward eminent service to the Republic. Recipients must have attained 30 years of age, be of good character and have served in a public role for at least 15 years or a liberal profession for 20 years.
Exceptionally, the Order may be awarded for acts of heroism, other outstanding acts or for serious injuries incurred in the service of the state, though serving ministers and members of the National Assembly are excluded from such exceptional awards.
The Order is rarely found.
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