Niger’s government has extended an invitation to Russian firms to invest in its vast natural resource sector. This development comes in the wake of deteriorating diplomatic ties with France, its former colonial overlord. Niger’s Mining Minister, Ousmane Abarchi, announced the nation’s interest in Russian partnerships while speaking to RIA Novosti, highlighting the exploration and exploitation opportunities beyond uranium, which include coal, gold, and petroleum.
The French nuclear company, Orano, recently halted uranium production in Niger after the military junta, which assumed power in July 2023, rescinded a critical mining permit. This site is noted for being one of the globe’s largest uranium deposits. Abarchi pointedly questioned the feasibility of continued French operations in Niger’s resource-rich lands, citing France’s non-recognition of Niger’s current government.
“Niger is keen on diversifying its partnerships,” Abarchi stated, underscoring the country’s strategic realignment towards Russia and other nations. “We aim to revamp foreign investment regulations to better serve our national interests and protect our resources.”
Niger, the world’s seventh-largest uranium producer, is seeking to expand its resource exploitation beyond just uranium, welcoming Russian interest in minerals like iron ore, phosphates, and gypsum. This initiative aligns with the broader trend among several West African countries that are distancing themselves from France in favor of new alliances.
Adding to this narrative, Alexander Kozlov, Russia’s Minister of Natural Resources, at the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum, emphasized Moscow’s proactive engagement in mineral exploration across Africa. Kozlov noted Russia’s readiness to broaden its geological exploration footprint on the continent, aiming to forge robust partnerships that leverage Africa’s untapped resources.
This burgeoning collaboration between Niger and Russia, backed by Russia’s existing projects in Africa, reflects a significant geopolitical shift that may redefine resource extraction dynamics in the region.
With Niger’s eyes fixed on concluding agreements within 2025, this represents an evolving opportunity landscape for Global market players.
