Niger will nationalize the French company Orano’s Somair uranium operation

The French nuclear fuels business Orano’s Somair uranium joint venture will be nationalized, the government of Niger said Thursday in a statement broadcast on the country’s national television.

Among the many complaints mentioned in the statement was the fact that the most recent mining deal expired in December 2023.

“Faced with this irresponsible, illegal, and unfair behaviour by Orano, a company owned by the French state — a state openly hostile toward Niger since July 26, 2023 … the government of Niger has decided, in full sovereignty, to nationalize Somair,” the statement read.

The decision follows a military coup in July 2023 that worsened relations between France and Niger, and it is an extension of a conflict between the French corporation and the government.

Niger’s state-owned Sopamin has the remaining shares in Somair, while Orano owns 63 percent. However, the French operator has been excluded since the military-led government took over the uranium mine.

Orano, which has been fighting the state in Niger and seeking arbitration against it, has been warning of government meddling at Somair, claiming that it was seriously harming the mine’s financial standing.

In May, the Financial Times reported that the business was reportedly considering selling its interest in the uranium operation.