Niger’s military leaders who nationalize the Uranus firm Somair

Junta Niger’s military states will nationalize the majority of French local company Uranus in the last consecutive country between the two countries.

Soma is governed by the French Nuclear Orano Nuclear Fuel company, which Niger accuses several “irresponsible actions”.

Since the capture of power in 2023, Niger’s military leaders have stated that they wanted to maintain more local control over the country’s mineral resources and resigned from France, the former colonial power, approaching Russia.

Niger-seventh largest uranium manufacturer in the world and has ores the highest class in Africa.

“This nationalization will allow you to healthier and more sustainable management of the company, and thus the best pleasure from the wealth of Nigeria’s mining resources,” Junta said.

Orano has not yet commented.

The company, which has been operating in Niger for decades, owns 63% of Somaïr shares, but last year the military authorities confiscated operational control over the firm.

According to Reuters, Orano, owned by the French state, has launched legal actions against Niger over its actions.

Niger reached independence from France in 1960, and the former colonial power was able to ensure exclusive access to uranium supplies through various agreements.

Analysts say many viewed in Niger as a symbol of the country’s constant domination.

However, they also note that any uncertainty in the future of the mining sector may threaten hundreds of jobs as well as export income.

Earlier this week, neighboring Mali announced that he was building Gold refining in partnership with Russian conglomerate.

Like Niger, Mali is under military control and says he wants to claim more economic control over his richness of minerals, while cutting ties with France and the West.