Niger transfers Somaïr uranium mine control to state entity

Niger has officially transferred control of the Somaïr uranium mining operation to a state-owned entity, TSUMCO SA. This follows the military government's seizure of the mine from the French nuclear fuel group Orano in June 2024. The government accused Orano of extracting uranium in excess of permitted levels.

During a council of ministers meeting presided over by General Abdourahamane Tiani, the government granted TSUMCO SA a large-scale mining permit for the ‘In Azaoua’ area in the Arlit region. TSUMCO SA was established as the successor structure following the nationalization of Somaïr.

In a separate decision, the government re-awarded the ‘Madaouela I’ uranium permit to Madaouela Mining Company (MAMICO). In exchange for the permit, MAMICO has agreed to pay an initial $10 million fee to the state, fund training for Ministry of Mines officials, and support local development. The company has also committed to local content rules, including reserving approximately 1,000 jobs for Nigerien youth.

These actions reflect a broader trend of resource nationalism in West Africa, as regional governments seek increased economic benefits and control over mineral resources. Orano has contested the nationalization through legal proceedings in multiple commercial courts.