Niger uranium on international market after Orano dispute

Niger’s military regime has announced plans to sell uranium produced by Somair, a formerly French‑owned subsidiary, on the international market. The decision follows the June nationalisation of the company, which triggered a standoff with Orano, the French giant that had operated Niger’s mines for decades. The announcement was made on state television, Tele Sahel, citing comments from General Abdourahamane Tiani, the junta’s head, who stressed Niger’s right to dispose of its natural resources independently and in accordance with market rules.

The move carries significant implications, especially given Russia’s expressed interest in Nigerien uranium. In July, Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev said Moscow wanted to explore uranium mining opportunities in the country. The junta’s nationalisation of Somair and other Orano‑operated mines reflects a broader shift in Niger’s foreign relations. Since seizing power in 2023, the military regime has turned to Russia for support against the country’s jihadist insurgency while distancing itself from former colonial power France. Accusing France of backing separatist groups, Niger’s relations with Paris have deteriorated.

Orano, 90 % owned by the French government, has run Niger’s mines for decades and retains a 60 % stake in the nationalised subsidiaries. The company has initiated arbitration procedures to regain operational control of the mines, which include Somair, Cominak and Imouraren—home to one of the world’s largest uranium deposits. In 2022, Niger supplied roughly a quarter of the natural uranium used by European nuclear power plants, according to Euratom data.

Selling uranium on the international market underscores Niger’s desire to assert its independence and fully exploit its natural resources. As the country navigates complex relationships with global powers, the fate of its uranium industry remains a critical issue. With Russia’s interest in uranium mining and the ongoing dispute with Orano, Niger’s decision is likely to have significant repercussions for the global nuclear energy market.