Niger's main mine workers' union has endorsed the government's move to nationalise Somair, one of the world's largest uranium mines, amid rising tensions with French operator Orano. The union, SYNTRAMIN, declared its support for what it called a "sovereign decision," pledging to maintain production and ensure the country gains greater value from its resources. The government, which seized the mine in December, accuses Orano—majority owner with a 63 per cent stake—of taking an excessive share of uranium output since 1971. Niger claims Orano extracted 86.3 per cent of production over five decades, despite the state holding a 37 per cent stake via Sopamin. Orano has rejected the nationalisation plan and is considering legal action. The move aligns with broader efforts by West African states to assert more control over natural resources. Niger, the world's seventh-largest uranium producer, is a key player in the global nuclear fuel market. Attribution: Reuters Subediting: M. S. Salama
