Niger's government announced plans to nationalise the Somair uranium joint venture operated by French nuclear fuels company Orano, according to a statement read out on national television in the West African nation on Thursday.

The decision is an escalation of a dispute between the Niger government and the French company, following a deterioration of relations between France and Niger after a military coup in July 2023.

The statement cited a series of grievances including the expiration of the latest mining agreement in December 2023.

"Faced with this irresponsible, illegal, and unfair behaviour by Orano, a company owned by the French state — a state openly hostile toward Niger since July 26 2023 ... the government of Niger has decided, in full sovereignty, to nationalise Somair," it said.

A spokesperson for Orano declined to comment.