Niger Awards 2 Mining Permits To National Companies For Copper And Uranium Extraction

The Nigerien government has awarded two new mining permits to national copper and uranium extraction companies, reinforcing its commitment to the mining sector as a key driver of economic development.

The permits were approved during the Council of Ministers meeting on February 22, 2025.

The first permit, granted to Compagnie Minière de l’Aïr, allows for copper extraction in the rural communes of Tabelot and Dabaga, located in the Tchirozérine department of the Agadez region.

The project, in which the state holds a 25 per cent stake, is expected to produce an average of 2,700 tonnes of copper metal annually over 10 years. It is projected to create 300 direct jobs and generate over 4 billion CFA francs in royalties in its first decade.

The second permit was awarded to Compagnie Minière de Recherche et d’Exploitation (COMIREX.SA) for uranium extraction in Dannat, within the Arlit department of the Agadez region.

With the state holding a 40 per cent share, the project aims to produce 300 tonnes of uranium annually over an initial five-year period, with the possibility of renewal. It is expected to create 94 direct jobs and generate more than 3.6 billion CFA francs in royalties.

Officials say the decision to grant these permits follows the identification of significant mineral deposits. The move is part of a broader strategy to maximise the country’s mineral resources while boosting local employment and state revenue.

Niger has long been recognised for its mineral wealth, with nearly 150 identified mineral deposits, including gold, uranium, coal, copper, tin, lithium, vanadium, phosphate, and coltan.

The government has recently implemented reforms to enhance state control over the mining sector. In September 2024, the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Fatherland (CNSP) established two public mining companies: Masumawa National Gold Company for gold extraction and Timorsoa National Uranium Company for uranium operations.

With these new permits, Niger aims to strengthen its position in the global mining industry.

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