Niger’s military-led government has announced the nationalization of the Somair uranium mine, removing French energy company Orano from the strategic joint venture. The move underscores the country’s push to assert sovereignty over its natural resources amid souring diplomatic ties with France.
In a statement read on national television Thursday evening, authorities declared their decision to take full control of the mine, accusing Orano of “irresponsible, illegal, and unfair” practices. The statement also pointed to the expiration of the mine’s operating agreement in December 2023 and France’s stance toward Niger since the July 2023 coup as central to the decision.
“Faced with this conduct and the open hostility of the French state, the government of Niger has decided, in full sovereignty, to nationalize Somair,” the statement said.
Somair, one of Niger’s major uranium producers, was jointly operated by Orano, which held a 63% stake, and Niger’s state-owned Sopamin, which held the remaining 37%. Since the military takeover, Orano has been denied access to the site.
The French firm has launched arbitration proceedings and filed legal challenges within Niger, claiming that government interference has severely damaged the mine’s finances. In May, the Financial Times reported that Orano was considering selling its stake in the venture altogether.
This latest development marks a sharp turn in Niger’s economic policy and reflects a growing trend across parts of Africa, where governments are reassessing long-standing partnerships with foreign firms, particularly those from former colonial powers.
Niger is one of the world’s top uranium producers, and the Somair mine has long been a key supplier to France’s nuclear energy sector. With the withdrawal of French troops from Niger and broader tensions reshaping regional geopolitics, the nationalization could signal a realignment in how Niger manages its strategic assets.
Analysts say the move may have long-term implications for foreign investment in Niger’s mining sector, even as the government insists it is acting in the national interest.