Niger has signed a nuclear cooperation agreement with Russia, formalising plans to collaborate on civilian nuclear energy and uranium mining as ties with Western partners weaken, TRT World has reported.

The memorandum of understanding was signed in Niamey during a visit by a Russian delegation led by Minister of Energy Sergei Tsivilev. The agreement includes initiatives to train Nigerien engineers from undergraduate through to postgraduate levels in Russian universities. According to Tsivilev, the deal is based on “mutual trust, mutual respect, and greater mutual benefit” and aims to support Niger’s energy, agriculture, health and education sectors.

The move follows the July 2023 coup that brought General Abdourahamane Tiani to power. Since then, Niger’s military-led government has expelled French troops, terminated military cooperation agreements with the United States, and suspended involvement with several Western-backed institutions. In contrast, Niger has strengthened diplomatic and economic ties with Russia, particularly in defence, infrastructure and energy.

Niger is one of the world’s top uranium producers and has sought to diversify its international partnerships amid deteriorating relations with Western countries. The agreement with Russia comes shortly after Niger announced the nationalisation of Somair, a uranium joint venture formerly operated by French nuclear fuel company Orano. The decision is part of broader efforts by the transitional government to reduce dependency on France, its former colonial power, and other Western states accused of political interference.

The Russian delegation held discussions with senior members of the Nigerien government, including ministers responsible for defence, foreign affairs, mines and energy. Talks focused on leveraging Niger’s natural resources and establishing long-term cooperation in key sectors.