Niger's military government has taken a decisive step to assert control over its natural resources, announcing on Thursday the cancellation of concessions for three gold mining and processing companies. The junta, which has ruled the West African nation since a coup in 2023, accused the firms of failing to respect their obligations. This move signals a hardening stance towards foreign extractive companies operating in the uranium, gold, and oil-producing country.
The government stated it had revoked concessions awarded between 2017 and 2020 to the companies named as Comini, Afrior, and Ecomine. According to an official statement, the three firms 'have not honoured' their commitments. Specifically, they are accused of failing to pay taxes, provide required annual technical and financial reports, and adhere to environmental regulations, leading to the termination of their operations.
This action further consolidates state control over Niger's gold sector, which currently has only one active industrial mine. That mine, known as Samira, was itself nationalised by the junta last year. The cancellation of these three concessions represents a continuation of the government's policy to directly manage and benefit from the nation's mineral wealth, following its assertion of sovereignty over natural resources.
In a parallel move targeting the oil sector, the government also rejected a request from British firm Savannah Energy for an extension on an exploration and drilling licence. The licence covers operations in the country's southeast. The authorities stated the company had failed to respect an output-sharing contract that governs four specific oil blocks in the region.
According to Savannah Energy, the blocks in question cover approximately half of the Agadem Rift Basin. This basin is Niger's main oil-producing region, making the licence a significant asset. The company has previously reported that it recently made a major oil discovery in this area, highlighting the basin's potential importance for the nation's energy future.
The dual actions against gold and oil companies underscore the junta's broader strategy of scrutinising and enforcing contracts with foreign resource firms. By accusing companies of contractual failures, the government is positioning itself as a strict regulator demanding compliance. This approach could reshape the investment landscape for extractive industries in Niger, potentially deterring some foreign operators while strengthening state revenues.
The decisions come against the backdrop of the 2023 coup, after which the military government has consistently emphasised national control over resources. This resource nationalism is a common theme among several Sahelian nations where juntas have taken power, often criticising past agreements as unfavourable to the state. Niger's actions may be watched closely by neighbouring countries and international investors assessing risk in the region.
For Niger, a landlocked nation where mining and hydrocarbons are vital for export earnings, balancing enforcement with attracting future investment will be a critical challenge. The cancellation of concessions and denial of licence extensions directly impact current production and exploration plans. The government's next steps, including whether it seeks new partners or increases state-led development, will be crucial for the sector's stability and the country's economic trajectory.
