Niger’s military junta says it will nationalise the majority French-owned local uranium company in the latest escalation in a row between the two countries.

Somaïr is operated by French nuclear fuels company Orano, which Niger accuses of several “irresponsible acts”.

Since seizing power in 2023, Niger’s military leaders have said they want to keep more local control of the country’s mineral wealth, and have distanced themselves from France, the former colonial power, moving closer to Russia.

Niger is the world’s seventh largest producer of uranium and has the highest-grade ores in Africa.

“This nationalisation will allow for healthier and more sustainable management of the company and, consequently, optimal enjoyment of the wealth from mining resources by Nigeriens,” the junta said in a statement.

Orano has not yet commented.

The company, which has operated in Niger for decades, owns a 63% stake in Somaïr but last year the military authorities seized operational control of the firm.

According to the Reuters news agency, Orano, which is owned by the French state, has launched legal action against Niger over its actions.

Niger achieved independence from France in 1960 and the former colonial power managed to secure exclusive access to Niger’s uranium supply through various agreements.

Analysts say this was seen by many in Niger as a symbol of the country’s continued domination by France.

However, they also note that any uncertainty over the mining sector’s future could threaten hundreds of jobs, as well as export earnings.

Earlier this week, neighbouring Mali announced it was building a gold refinery in partnership with a Russian conglomerate.

Like Niger, Mali is under military control and says it wants to assert more economic control of its mineral wealth, while cutting ties with France and the West.