Niger’s ruling military junta has announced the nationalization of Somaïr, a predominantly French-owned uranium mining company, marking a significant escalation in tensions with France.
The junta accuses Orano, the French nuclear fuels company operating Somaïr, of “irresponsible acts,” citing unfair uranium extraction practices.
Since the 2023 coup, Niger’s military leadership has emphasized greater national control over the country’s mineral resources, distancing itself from France, its former colonial power, and aligning more closely with Russia.
Niger holds the seventh-largest uranium reserves globally and possesses some of Africa’s highest-grade ores.
The junta stated that nationalization will ensure “healthier and more sustainable management of the company, leading to optimal benefit from mining resources for Nigeriens.”
Orano, a French state-owned enterprise, has yet to respond to the nationalization. The company holds a 63% stake in Somaïr, though operational control was seized by the military last year. Reuters reports that Orano has initiated legal proceedings against Niger.
Since Niger’s independence from France in 1960, France maintained preferential access to Niger’s uranium supply via various agreements. This arrangement was viewed by many Nigeriens as a symbol of continued French dominance.
Analysts caution that uncertainty surrounding the mining sector’s future could jeopardize numerous jobs and export revenue.
This development follows Mali’s recent announcement of a gold refinery partnership with a Russian conglomerate. Like Niger, Mali, under military rule, seeks enhanced control over its mineral wealth while reducing ties with France and the West.
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