Niger military leaders to nationalise uranium firm

Details of the Decision

Niger's military leaders have announced that they will be nationalising the country's uranium mining firm, ending the firm's joint ownership with a French company. The move is being seen as a significant shift in the country's relations with France, a former colonial power, and is likely to impact Niger's uranium exports.

Response from France

The French government has responded to the decision by calling an emergency meeting of its National Security Council, and promising to review its cooperation with Niger. The move is being seen as a potential blow to France's nuclear industry, which relies on Niger's uranium for about a quarter of its electricity production.

Impact on the Local Population

The decision is also being seen as a potential win for the millions of Nigeriens who have long complained of being left on the margins of the country's mining industry. The nationalisation is expected to lead to a restructuring of the mining firm, with more locals being employed in senior management roles.

Next Steps

The handover of the uranium mining firm to Nigerien military control is set to take place over the coming months. The exact timeline is still to be determined.