The government of Niger has announced the nationalisation of Société des Mines de l'Aïr (Somaïr), previously controlled by French nuclear giant Orano. The decision, taken at the end of the Council of Ministers, marks a new turning point in the already tense relations between Niamey and Paris.
In an official press release, the Niger authorities accused Orano, which is majority-owned by the French state, of appropriating a disproportionate share of uranium production and of behaving in a manner described as "irresponsible, illegal and unfair". The government denounces a series of practices: the unannounced repatriation of French employees, attempts to halt production at board meetings, the announcement of a loss of control of Somaïr, a complaint lodged against the Nigerien state, the disconnection of the global IT system, the termination of licences, and an attempt to sell Orano's shares. The press release also points out that Orano has halted the rehabilitation of the Compagnie minière d'Akouta (Cominak) site, in breach of its legal obligations.
This nationalisation comes against a backdrop of bilateral relations that have deteriorated sharply since the coup d'état of 26 July 2023, which brought new authorities to power in Niamey. Since then, Niger has made a series of moves to assert its economic and political sovereignty, including a review of mining concessions, takeovers of foreign companies and the expulsion of French diplomats. In 2023, the government had already withdrawn Orano's licence to operate the Imouraren mine, one of the world's largest undeveloped uranium deposits.
Orano, which has been present in Niger for over 50 years, retains interests in several operating sites, but the climate has deteriorated considerably. The company has initiated arbitration proceedings against the Nigerien state, notably after the mysterious disappearance of its local director and the search of his offices last month.
The nationalisation of Somaïr, which produces around 5% of the world's uranium, raises crucial questions about the future of the mining industry in Niger, the world's third largest uranium producer. This decision could strengthen the State's control over its natural resources, but it also risks increasing the country's economic isolation and complicating its relations with foreign investors.
For the time being, neither Orano nor the French government have officially reacted to this announcement. All eyes are now on any countermeasures France might take, and on the impact of this nationalisation on the world uranium market.