Niger Government plans to nationalise Orano-operated Somair uranium JV
The Government of Niger has announced its intention to nationalise the Somair uranium joint venture (JV), currently operated by France’s Orano, reported Reuters, citing sources.
The move marks a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute between the West African nation and the French nuclear fuels company.
The statement made on national television pointed to various grievances including the expiration of the mining agreement 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 26 July 2023… the government of Niger has decided, in full sovereignty, to nationalise Somair,” the statement declared.
This decision comes amidst deteriorating relations between France and Niger following a military coup in Niger in July 2023.
Orano, which holds a 63% stake in Somair, with the remaining shares owned by Niger’s state-owned Sopamin, has been excluded from the operation since the military-led government took over the uranium mine.
