French mining firm Niger abduction dispute
A French state-linked firm, Orano SA, which has been active in uranium mining in Niger for over 50 years, is embroiled in escalating legal and political conflict with the Nigerien authorities. The company has filed lawsuits and arbitration claims against Niger’s military‐led government, alleging that its director was detained, company property was confiscated, and its mining assets were expropriated.
Niger’s junta, which seized power in July 2023, has accused Orano of “irresponsible” conduct, unfairly exploiting resources, and undermining state sovereignty. The government announced the nationalisation of Orano’s major uranium venture in Niger, the Somair project, transferring a 63 % stake formerly held by Orano to the Nigerien state, citing the need for greater control over natural resources.
While the primary story concerns asset seizure and litigation, there are longstanding reports of abductions and security threats linked to foreign mining operations in Niger. For example, in 2010, five French workers with French mining interests were kidnapped in the northern town of Arlit by armed groups, reflecting risk to mining companies in the region.
At this stage, however, the specific phrasing that the French mining firm “will be tried over abductions in Niger” does not appear fully supported by credible recent sources. The latest credible reporting focuses on Orano filing lawsuits and being subject to nationalisation and detention of staff, not an official criminal trial for abductions initiated by Niger. Thus the claim may conflate older hostage‐incidents or rebel actions with the current legal dispute.
