Niger Seizes Control of French Uranium Mine
(MENAFN) Niger’s ruling military leadership has revealed its intention to take full ownership of the Somair uranium enterprise, a domestic operation run by the French state-backed nuclear energy corporation Orano.
This move follows mounting friction between the mining firm and the West African state.
Officials accused Orano of engaging in unlawful conduct, which they claim warranted the state’s decision.
They also noted that the latest contract signed between Niger and the French conglomerate had lapsed in December 2023.
The Somair uranium site, located in Arlit in the country’s north, has been active since 1971.
“Faced with this irresponsible, illegal, and unfair behavior by Orano – a company owned by the French state, which has been openly hostile toward Niger since July 26, 2023 – the government of Niger has decided, in full sovereignty, to nationalize Somair,” a national broadcaster reported, quoting a statement following a Thursday session of the Nigerien Council of Ministers.
“This nationalization will allow for healthier and more sustainable management of the company and, consequently, optimal enjoyment of the wealth from mining resources by Nigeriens,” read the government’s announcement shared by a news outlet.
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