Niger’s ruling military junta has reportedly expelled three Chinese oil executives, signaling a potential shift in the nation’s resource management.
Media outlets revealed that managers from China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), refining firm Soraz, and pipeline operator Wapco received a two-day notice to exit.
While no official reason was cited, an online commentator close to the regime suggested the move followed authorities’ unmet demands for Nigerien benefits from oil extraction.
Separately, a government decree revoked the license of the Chinese-owned Soluxe International hotel, a four-star establishment.
The tourism ministry accused the hotel of engaging in “discriminatory practices” and fiscal irregularities.
This hotel, which opened in 2015, primarily accommodated workers from the targeted oil companies.
The military, which seized power in Niger in 2023, has declared its commitment to ensuring the nation profits from its mining and petroleum wealth.
In February, the petrol minister, Sahabi Oumarou, pressed Soraz for a plan guaranteeing executive positions and fair wages for Nigerien employees, noting disparities with foreign workers’ compensation.
Niger, despite producing crude oil, faces a significant petrol shortage since the beginning of March, adding complexity to the unfolding situation.
