Niamey – Niger has announced its intention to sell its uranium stockpile directly on international markets. This decision follows the nationalization of the SOMAIR mining operations, previously controlled by the French company Orano, earlier this year.
The move underscores the commitment of the new military council to exert full control over the nation’s natural resources and curtail the influence of foreign corporations. General Abdourahamane Tchiani, head of the military council, emphasized that Niger possesses the absolute right to manage its resources and sell them to any party under market principles and complete independence.
This announcement signals a continued dispute with France and a potential shift towards new partnerships. Orano has managed Nigerien uranium mines for decades, holding a 90% stake, which granted France significant influence in the vital sector. However, since the 2023 coup, Niger has been actively pursuing independence, reducing its reliance on Paris and accusing it of supporting separatist factions within the country.
Simultaneously, Russia has expressed interest in investing in uranium mining, as stated by Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev, indicating Niger’s potential pivot towards new partners to bolster its strategic sector.
In 2024, Niger revoked operating licenses for three major mines: SOMAIR, COMINAK, and Imouraren, which holds one of the world’s largest uranium reserves. While Orano officially retains a 60% stake, Nigerien authorities are independently managing operations, prompting the French company to pursue international arbitration in an attempt to regain control.
Nigerien uranium plays a crucial role in the global nuclear energy market. Data from Euratom indicates that it accounted for approximately a quarter of Europe’s uranium imports in 2022, positioning Niger as a significant player in global nuclear strategy and highlighting its economic and political importance.
This step marks a new phase for Niger in managing its natural wealth, asserting its sovereignty and independence in economic decisions, and expanding its partnerships beyond colonial influence.
