Tensions between Niger’s military authorities and France have sharply intensified following an attack on Niamey’s airport and the nationalisation of a key uranium mining company, deepening a diplomatic rift and economic standoff.
Air Base 101 Attack and Allegations Against Paris
The Jan. 29 attack on Air Base 101 at Niamey’s international airport marked a new phase in the crisis between Niamey and Paris.
In a televised address, Niger’s head of state, General Abdourahamane Tiani, accused France’s external intelligence agency, the DGSE, and French special forces of having “financed and encouraged” mercenaries to destabilise the country. He said 300 million CFA francs had allegedly been paid to armed groups, including JNIM and Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (EIGS).
Niger’s defence ministry said security forces killed 20 attackers and captured 11. Four Nigerien soldiers were wounded. Authorities reported damage to three civilian aircraft and at least five military aircraft, including a helicopter.
However, the attack was claimed on Jan. 30 by Islamic State in the Sahel through its propaganda outlet Amaq, complicating the official narrative.
A senior adviser to Tiani urged the population to “prepare for war with France,” heightening diplomatic tensions.
Uranium: Nationalisation and Arbitration
On the economic front, the crisis deepened in February with the nationalisation of the Société des mines de l’Aïr (Somaïr), previously operated in partnership with French nuclear fuel company Orano.
Niger’s authorities announced full state control of the subsidiary, citing national sovereignty over strategic resources. Around 1,000 tonnes of uranium, valued at roughly 250 million euros, are currently stored at Niamey airport.
Tiani said Niger would be prepared to return France’s “historic share,” but that all future production would fall exclusively under state control.
Orano has initiated international arbitration proceedings, denouncing what it described as an expropriation of its assets. Niger’s authorities have said they intend to redefine mining partnerships, including by engaging new partners such as Russia and Turkey.
Fragile Regional Environment
Beyond its dispute with France, Niamey has accused Benin and Ivory Coast of hosting “rear bases” to support destabilisation efforts, allegations both countries deny.
Security conditions remain fragile, particularly in the Tillabéri region. The Jan. 18 attack in Bosiye, which killed 31 civilians, underscores the persistence of jihadist threats despite strengthened military cooperation with the Russian group Africa Corps.
Western embassies and United Nations humanitarian agencies maintain a high alert level in Niamey and surrounding areas, citing increasing unpredictability in armed group movements.
The combination of serious security allegations, a strategic economic dispute over uranium and an unstable regional backdrop places Niger at the centre of a major diplomatic confrontation, as international legal proceedings are expected to be lengthy and complex.
