Following the suspension of uranium production in October 2024, Orano decided in November to cut back on specific expenses related to its mining operations in Niger. This decision, rejected by the government, came after the company could not export its uranium for several months.

Authorities in Niger have taken operational control of Orano's local subsidiary, Somaïr. The French company disclosed the news via a statement issued on December 4, 2025. Orano, which owns 63.4% of Somaïr, operates the only active uranium mine in Niger. The company stated, "The decisions taken at the company's [Somaïr's, editor's note] board meetings are no longer being applied and, in fact, Orano now finds that the Niger authorities have taken operational control. The ongoing production expenses at the site are further deteriorating the company's financial situation every day."

Orano’s announcement is the latest development in a protracted struggle with the Nigerien government, led by President Abdourahamane Tiani, who came to power after a coup in July 2023. Last June, the military revoked Orano's operating rights on another site; it blocked uranium export from the same site subsequently, thus translating into no export since January 2024.

Orano primarily exports uranium to France, which was one of Niger's top three uranium suppliers in 2022. However, relations between Paris and Niamey have soured since the coup, leading to the exit of the French ambassador in Niger.

Orano's future in Niger is uncertain, but the company plans to "defend its rights before the competent authorities." Still, if Orano leaves the country, others are ready to step in for uranium production. Russia has strengthened ties with Niamey in recent months, and Turkey is also seeking uranium from Niger, having signed a protocol of understanding for mining exploration in October 2024.

Emiliano Tossou