Niger Plans Legal Action Against Orano After Discovery of Radioactive Barrels

Niamey, December 2, 2025 - The Nigerien government announced its intention to sue the French mining group Orano following the discovery of 400 barrels containing radioactive core samples in Madaouela, northern Niger.

Speaking at a press conference, Minister of Justice Alio Daouda condemned Orano, describing the company as a “predator that has lost its prey” and criticizing its historical handling of Niger’s uranium sector. “Several million tons of radioactive waste were left exposed to the open air,” the Minister said.

Measurements of the barrels revealed radiation levels between 7 and 10 microsieverts per hour-far exceeding the 0.5 microsievert safety standard. The samples reportedly contain bismuth-207 and chromium X, highly toxic substances capable of contaminating anyone within a 10-meter radius, prompting serious environmental, health, and social concerns.

The Minister emphasized that Niger’s nationalization of its uranium sector in December 2024 and the discovery of the barrels represent a clear breach of responsibility by Orano. The government plans to seek full compensation for damages.

Orano, which has denied involvement in the controversial convoy of uranium, stated it is prepared to take legal measures, including criminal proceedings, to defend its rights. The incident also reportedly violates an ICSID arbitration ruling from September 2025, which prohibited Niger from selling or transferring uranium produced by SOMAIR.