NIAMEY, Niger — In a move that signals a deepening shift toward economic nationalism, Niger’s military government has expelled three senior Chinese oil executives, further asserting control over the country’s natural resources. The expulsions come amid mounting tensions between the junta and foreign companies operating in Niger’s lucrative energy sector.
The officials—representing China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), the West African Oil Pipeline Company (WAPCo), and the joint venture refinery SORAZ—were ordered to leave the country within 48 hours, according to two sources familiar with the decision. By Friday, at least one of the executives had already departed, a government-linked source said.
The Nigerien government has yet to publicly explain the decision, but individuals close to the affected firms indicated that disputes over labor conditions, wage disparities, and the slow progress of oil-related infrastructure projects contributed to the move. The expulsion underscores the increasing strain between Niger’s ruling military leaders and Beijing, whose state-backed firms play a crucial role in the country’s oil production and exports.
A Shift in Niger’s Resource Strategy
Since seizing power in a 2023 coup, Niger’s military-led government has adopted a more assertive stance toward foreign investors, particularly in strategic sectors such as oil, mining, and infrastructure. The junta’s approach mirrors a broader pattern in West Africa, where military regimes in Mali and Burkina Faso have taken steps to renegotiate foreign contracts and tighten control over national assets.
China has invested heavily in Niger’s energy sector, financing key projects such as the 2,000-kilometer Niger-Benin oil pipeline, which was designed to transform the landlocked nation into an emerging oil exporter. However, relations have cooled in recent months, as Nigerien authorities push for greater control over revenue distribution and labor policies.
“The government wants more oversight on how resources are managed and how profits are shared,” said a Niger-based economic analyst who spoke on condition of anonymity. “They feel that foreign companies—especially those from China—have operated with too much independence for too long.”
Economic and Diplomatic Fallout
The expulsion of the Chinese executives could have significant consequences for Niger’s oil industry, potentially disrupting operations and delaying key projects. CNPC plays an integral role in oil extraction, while WAPCo manages pipeline infrastructure critical to crude exports. Any disruption in their operations could impact Niger’s economic outlook, particularly as the country seeks to increase revenue from oil sales.
Beyond the economic risks, the move could also strain diplomatic ties between Niamey and Beijing, which has historically been one of Africa’s largest investors. China has long been engaged in infrastructure development across the continent, but recent years have seen growing pushback from African governments concerned about debt dependency, profit-sharing, and labor conditions.
Experts suggest that Niger’s decision could trigger a reassessment of China’s investments in the region. “If Niger continues down this path, China may reconsider the scale and nature of its commitments,” said a West Africa-based foreign policy analyst. “This could have ripple effects, not just for Niger but for Beijing’s broader engagement strategy across the Sahel.”
A Broader Crackdown on Foreign Enterprises?
Niger’s stance on foreign business is not limited to the oil sector. Just last week, the government revoked the license of a Chinese-managed hotel in Niamey, citing allegations of discriminatory labor practices. The move suggests a broader push for increased oversight of foreign businesses operating in the country.
While Niger’s leadership has positioned these actions as necessary to protect national interests, some observers warn that such measures could deter future investment. Foreign businesses may hesitate to expand operations in Niger if they perceive an unpredictable regulatory environment or the risk of sudden government intervention.
Silence from Authorities
Despite the potential economic and diplomatic ramifications, Niger’s military government has offered no official comment on the expulsion of the Chinese executives. Both the country’s oil ministry and junta leadership have declined to address inquiries from the press.
With the junta tightening its grip on Niger’s economic assets, the expulsion of Chinese oil executives marks a pivotal moment in the country’s evolving relationship with foreign investors. As the government continues to assert control over key industries, it remains to be seen whether this strategy will lead to greater economic independence—or unintended financial and diplomatic consequences.
