The French barracks was called Fort Cazemajou[4] and it served as the capital of the Niger Military Territory upon its creation in 1911.

In 1926, following fears of Hausa revolts and improving relations with the Djerma of the west, the capital was transferred back to the village of Niamey.

[6] The centre of Zinder consists of three main areas: in the north is Zengou or Zango, the old Tuareg suburb,[4] is known for its vernacular architecture, and in the south lies Birni, the old Hausa town, which is home to Zinder Great Mosque, Fort Tanimoune and the Sultan's Palace, as well as a museum.

Sabon Gari (the new town), lies between Birni and Zengou, and is the commercial centre, known for its large market (the Grand Marché).

Today, the city counts four officially recognised industries: Tannerie Malam Yaro (leather tanning), Gidan Alkaki (cake production), Sahara Sahel Foods (processing of non-wood forest produce) and SORAZ (petrol refinery located 50km North of the city).