Russia Seeks To Replace France In Niger With Nuclear Power Deal

Russia is intensifying its bid to replace France’s long-standing dominance in Niger’s uranium sector by proposing the construction of a nuclear power plant in the country.

Despite being rich in uranium, Niger continues to face severe electricity shortages. For decades, the country exported uranium to France for processing, a dynamic that has drawn criticism under Niger’s military-led government, which has been distancing itself from Paris.

Moscow has seized the opportunity to expand its influence in the Sahel. It has already signed nuclear cooperation agreements with Mali and Burkina Faso, and recently concluded a deal with Niger. Under this agreement, Rosatom will support the development of nuclear infrastructure, including power plants, research reactors, and fuel supply systems.

Russia’s Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev emphasized that the partnership is not limited to uranium mining, but aimed at building a comprehensive framework for peaceful nuclear development in Niger.

Niger’s government, pursuing a nationalization policy that insists on greater local benefit from its uranium resources, sees the deal as a way to expand beyond raw mineral exports. The partnership with Russia is set to cover mining, power generation, medical applications, and training of local professionals.

Analysts suggest the shift represents more than a diplomatic break with France. For decades, French control over Niger’s uranium industry prioritized fueling France’s nuclear reactors, while offering limited development benefits to Niger. By turning to Russia, Niger is seeking not only to redefine its energy future but also to assert itself as a producer of nuclear power, rather than just a supplier of raw materials.