Niger has taken a decisive step in reshaping its control over natural resources by announcing that uranium from the recently nationalised Somair mine will be sold directly to the international market. This marks a significant break from decades of dependence on Orano, the French state affiliated company that historically dominated the purchase and processing of Nigerien uranium.
According to statements attributed to General Abdourahamane Tiani, the head of the ruling military government, Niger will now determine independently who is permitted to buy its uranium. General Tiani stated that the country is no longer obliged to follow external directives or commercial patterns that served foreign interests more than local development. His comments underline the government’s goal of asserting full sovereignty over mineral extraction and export.
The new strategy also comes despite an ongoing ruling by the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes which favoured Orano regarding previous mining agreements. Niger’s authorities have signalled that they intend to pursue their chosen direction regardless of that decision.
International interest in Niger’s uranium has grown sharply since the announcement. Potential buyers and partners are believed to include Russia, Iran and Turkey, with particular attention placed on Russia’s Rosatom, a major player in the global nuclear energy sector. If new agreements are finalised, they would significantly alter long standing supply channels for energy companies in Europe and beyond.
The global uranium market is observing the development closely. Niger remains one of the worlds key suppliers of uranium ore, and any change in its export structure could affect pricing, availability and geopolitical relationships. Analysts note that the move represents more than a shift in commercial policy. It is interpreted as a deliberate attempt by the Nigerien government to reposition itself in the global economy while asserting political independence after years of security and political transitions.
Economic commentators in West Africa have argued that this decision could either generate substantial revenue for Niger or create new tensions with traditional European partners. Much depends on the ability of the government to negotiate transparent and competitive agreements with new buyers, as well as manage the environmental and operational responsibilities of a nationalised mining sector.
