The Nigerien government has taken steps to deepen its cooperation with Russian companies in the uranium sector. On October 1, 2026, Mines Minister Ousmane Abarchi met with representatives from Uranium One Group and TENEX, both part of Russia's Rosatom group. The meeting aimed to advance projects outlined in a memorandum of understanding between the Nigerien Ministry of Mines and Uranium One Group. Discussions focused on implementing previously agreed-upon commitments and future collaborations.
The cooperation between Niger and Russia in the mining and nuclear sectors has been building since 2025. In July of that year, a Russian delegation led by Energy Minister Sergueï Tsiviliov visited Niamey, resulting in a memorandum on nuclear energy and uranium exploration. Additionally, Nigerien officials discussed training programs for local cadres. Two months later, at the World Atomic Forum in Moscow, Minister Abarchi presented a project to develop nuclear capacity in Niger with Russian assistance.
The project includes constructing two 1,000 MW reactors. This initiative follows a memorandum signed on December 9, 2025, between Niger's Timersoi National Uranium Company (TNUC) and Uranium One Group. The agreement outlines steps for obtaining necessary permits, conducting geological exploration, and eventually developing new uranium extraction facilities. These developments mark a significant expansion of Russian-Nigerien cooperation in the uranium sector.
By partnering with Russian companies, Niger aims to diversify its partnerships in the mining sector and increase its control over the country's natural resources. The government hopes to boost the national economy through more effective management of resource extraction. This approach aligns with Niger's broader strategy of engaging with multiple international partners to maximize benefits from its strategic resources.
The presence of both Uranium One and TENEX at the October 1 meeting highlights the comprehensive nature of the cooperation. Uranium One specializes in uranium mining, while TENEX focuses on nuclear materials marketing and fuel cycle services. This combined expertise enables Niger to tap into various aspects of the nuclear energy value chain.
Nigerien officials emphasize that the cooperation with Russian companies is based on mutual interest and respect. The Ministry of Mines views this partnership as a durable and equitable one. By strengthening ties with Russia, Niger aims to assert greater control over its uranium resources and enhance the economic benefits derived from their exploitation.
The strengthening of Niger-Russia cooperation in the uranium sector reflects a broader shift in Niger's international partnerships. The country seeks to reduce its reliance on traditional partners and explore new opportunities for resource development. As Niger navigates its relationships with various international actors, its cooperation with Russia in the uranium sector is likely to remain a significant aspect of its economic and energy strategy.
Key points
- Niger has strengthened cooperation with Russia's Rosatom group in the uranium sector.
- The cooperation aims to enhance Niger's control over its natural resources and boost economic benefits.
- The partnership includes projects for uranium exploration, extraction, and nuclear energy development.
