Niger Plans to Seize French Stake in Uranium Firm Somair – DW – June 20, 2025

The ruling junta militia in Niger has announced plans to nationalize Somair, a uranium company owned by the French state, Orano. The decision, made in response to the “irresponsible, illegal, and disloyal behavior” of Orano, escalates tensions between the two countries. Orano holds a 63% stake in Somair, while Niger’s state-run Sopamin controls the remaining shares. This move comes amid a growing rift between France and Niger, following a coup in 2023 that resulted in the withdrawal of French troops from the region. Orano has been pursuing legal action to regain control of Somair, citing damage to the mine’s finances due to the state’s actions. Adv(heightwo12niegwU/wS8ywW60u)

Source: https://www.dw.com/en/niger-to-nationalize-french-share-in-uranium-company-somair/a-72979089?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf