With more than 1500000 camel heads in constant growth, i.e. 16% of the national herd, including all species, Niger is one of the main countries of camel farming in the world. At the moment, this species is present in all the country and its contribution to the national economy increased significantly through the exportation of live animals (25000 per year). This confirms that the camel production changed from margin to an essential part of the national animal resources. The present communication enlightens the role of camel in the poverty alleviation of Nigerian families. This role was underlined by services, incomes and products given by the camels to the smallholders. Indeed, the camel farming contributed to the safety of the families (feeding, incomes, and agricultural production). Only species able to resist in harsh conditions of Niger, the camel is the more safe investment of the farmers and the last stage of the capitalization. Camel farming allows also the farmers to be integrated economically and socially. However, the risks of pauperization of the camel herders are high and vulnerable camel farmers exist in the society. (Texte intégral)