There are 14 teams competing in the league, which operates on a system of promotion and relegation with the Ligue Nationale.
[3] Although the championship has been contested since 1966, the structure has changed over time, and a number of years the competition has been canceled or shortened.
[4] Several major clubs dropped out in 2004 and 2005 for financial reasons and because of the 2005 famine afflicting the south center of the nation.
In 2004, for instance, three clubs in the first round were disqualified, and more than two dozen matches were annulled or awarded after the fact for a variety of offences.
[4] Historically, Niamey has had the most accomplished regional league, and has provided most clubs in the national championship.