Niger has taken another big step in reclaiming its uranium sector.
On August 21, the military government awarded two major mining permits to local companies, days after fully ending French control over the country’s key uranium operations
The first permit covers the In Azaoua area in Arlit the same site previously run by French nuclear giant Orano through its Somaïr joint venture. That permit now goes to TSUMCO, a new state-owned Nigerien company created after the government nationalized Somaïr last year.
The second permit is for the Madaouela project. It was given to MAMICO, a Niger-registered company linked to Australia’s Atomic Eagle. The state now holds a 40% stake, while Atomic Eagle keeps 60% and operational control.
This comes after years of tension. Orano had controlled Somaïr for decades with a 63% share. After the 2023 coup, the new authorities steadily pushed the French company out — first limiting its operations, then nationalizing the mine in 2025, and finally cancelling the old French concession earlier this year.
The Madaouela permit had previously belonged to a Canadian company before being withdrawn. Under the new deal, MAMICO must pay the government about $10 million upfront and create around 1,000 jobs for young Nigeriens, while giving priority to local suppliers.
Officials say the moves are part of a wider push for resource sovereignty — putting more of Niger’s strategic minerals under local control after decades of foreign dominance.
Production at the former Orano mine is expected to continue under TSUMCO. The Madaouela project still needs more work before it can start producing.
Niger is making it clear: the era of French control over its uranium is over.