The government of Niger has made a decisive move by revoking the operating permit of Canadian company GoviEX for the Madaouéla uranium mine near Arlit.
This action follows GoviEX’s failure to meet the start date for exploitation, as mandated by the Ministry of Mines’ deadline of July 3. Consequently, the mine has been transferred to the public domain.
GoviEX has contested the government’s decision, arguing that it contravenes the existing mining code and threatening legal action.
The company has also expressed concerns over the adverse economic and social impacts resulting from job losses in the region.
This development echoes a similar incident earlier in June, when the Nigerien government revoked the permit of French company Orano (formerly Areva) for the Imouraren uranium deposit. Orano has shown readiness to engage in discussions with Nigerien authorities regarding this matter.
The Imouraren deposit ranks among the largest uranium reserves globally, holding an estimated 200,000 tonnes of uranium.
The actions taken by the Nigerien government reflect its commitment to enforce mining regulations while managing significant national resources amidst international company operations.
Report by Rabiu Mohammed
