The Niger River is a major river in West Africa and is known by different names in different regions. In its upper course, it is called the Joliba or Bani River, while in its lower course it is referred to as the Kwara River or simply the Niger. Other synonyms for the Niger River include the Isa Ber, meaning "big river" in Tuareg, and Kornio, an alternate name used in the Hausa language. The river is an essential resource for many countries it flows through, providing irrigation, transportation, and electricity generation. It is also a vital habitat for diverse wildlife, including Nile crocodiles, hippopotamuses, and West African manatees.