Niger Ready to Return Orano-Produced Uranium after Mine Takeover

Niger is ready to return the uranium produced by Orano SA at the Somair mine to the French nuclear company, two months after unidentified attackers who staged an assault on the capital came dangerously close to the stockpile.

Niger’s military authorities took over the mine in 2024, accusing Orano of planning to halt operations and sell its stake without following proper procedures. The government later removed uranium from the site in violation of an arbitration tribunal ruling, raising concerns about radioactive material being transported through jihadist-affected regions.