Update for the James Bay Niobium Project
MWN-AI** Summary
NioBay Metals Inc. (TSX-V: NBY; OTCQB: NBYCF) has recently provided an update regarding its James Bay Niobium Project, following a letter dated February 18, 2026, from the Chief of the Moose Cree First Nation (MCFN). The company emphasizes its commitment to conducting exploration activities in compliance with Indigenous rights, environmental laws, and regulations established by the Ontario government. NioBay aims to engage collaboratively with the local community by utilizing local contractors, creating jobs, and developing partnerships, thereby ensuring that economic benefits from the project are realized by the community.
The Board of Directors recognizes the James Bay Niobium Project’s significance within Treaty 9 territory, which forms the ancestral land of the Moose Cree First Nation. NioBay stresses the importance of respecting Indigenous rights and interests as it moves forward with the project.
NioBay's vision is to establish itself as a leader in the development of mines characterized by low carbon consumption, responsible water management, and adherence to social responsibility and good governance principles. At the core of NioBay's strategy is the full engagement and consent of the Indigenous communities within whose territories the company operates, including the Moose Cree First Nation.
In addition to the James Bay Niobium Project, NioBay holds a 72.5% stake in the Crevier Niobium and Tantalum project in Québec, situated on the territory of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh First Nation. NioBay aims to leverage niobium's unique properties to enhance materials across various sectors, contributing to lower environmental impacts and improved efficiencies.
The company cautions that forward-looking statements included in the announcement are based on management's beliefs, assumptions, and are subject to risks that could affect outcomes.
MWN-AI** Analysis
As of February 20, 2026, NioBay Metals Inc. (TSX-V: NBY) is actively engaged in its wholly-owned James Bay Niobium Project, situated in the Moose Cree Traditional Territory, an area significant for both its economic potential and indigenous rights. Given the recent developments, including the issuance of a letter by the Chief of the Moose Cree First Nation expressing concerns, it's crucial for investors to consider both the opportunities and risks surrounding this project.
NioBay has emphasized its commitment to responsible exploration, aligning with environmental regulations and fostering constructive relationships with local communities. This socially responsible approach is increasingly valued in today’s market, especially among ESG-focused investors. The growing demand for niobium—used primarily in alloys and increasing applications in energy transition technologies—positions NioBay to capitalize on future market trends.
However, the Company's ability to navigate the evolving relationship with the Moose Cree First Nation will be a key determinant of its success. Investors should monitor how effectively NioBay implements its commitments to local job creation and partnership opportunities. Successfully addressing community concerns can enhance the project’s social license to operate, potentially leading to expedited approvals and reduced risks associated with operational delays.
Despite the encouraging fundamentals surrounding niobium demand and NioBay’s responsible practices, investors must remain vigilant about the regulatory and social landscape. Any setbacks in community relations or adherence to permitting obligations could negatively impact project timelines and shareholder value.
In summary, while the James Bay Project represents a promising opportunity in the niobium market, disciplined investors should weigh the project's socio-political dynamics against its economic potential, maintaining a balanced perspective as developments unfold.
**MWN-AI Summary and Analysis is based on asking OpenAI to summarize and analyze this news release.
MONTRÉAL, Feb. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NioBay Metals Inc. (“NioBay” or the “Company”) (TSX-V NBY) (OTCQB: NBYCF), provides an update on its wholly-owned James Bay niobium project (the “Project”).
The Company recently became aware of a letter dated February 18, 2026 (the “Letter”), issued by the Chief of the Moose Cree First Nation (“MCFN”) and subsequently posted on Facebook.
NioBay wishes to reiterate that it will carry out its exploration program in a manner that respects the rights of the MCFN as well as all applicable environmental laws and regulations and in full compliance with the permit issued by the Ontario government.
NioBay is committed to working in alignment with the local community through the use of local contractors, job creation, strategic partnerships, community contributions, and the development of collaborative opportunities. Our objective is to foster a genuine and respectful partnership while maximizing the economic benefits generated by this exploration program for the community.
NioBay’s Board of Directors acknowledges that the James Bay Niobium Project is part of Treaty 9 and constitutes the core territory of the Moose Cree First Nation. We respect the Indigenous rights and interests of Moose Cree and the Treaty 9 Indigenous communities.
About NioBay Metals Inc.
NioBay aims to become a leader in the development of mines with low carbon consumption and responsible water and wildlife management practices while prioritizing the environment, social responsibility, good governance, and the inclusion of all stakeholders. Our top priority, which is critical to our success, is the consent and full participation of the Indigenous communities in whose territories and/or on ancestral lands we operate. In addition to other properties, NioBay holds a 100% interest in the James Bay Niobium Project located 45 km south of Moosonee, in the Moose Cree Traditional Territory of the James Bay Lowlands in Ontario. NioBay also holds a 72.5% interest in the Crevier Niobium and Tantalum project located in Québec and on the Nitassinan territory of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh First Nation.
About Niobium
Niobium is a naturally occurring element. It is a metal that is ductile, malleable and highly resistant to corrosion. Because it enhances properties and functionalities, niobium is used in a wide range of materials and applications in the Mobility, Structural and Energy sectors. Niobium transforms materials. When added to materials like steel, glass and aluminum castings, niobium makes them more efficient and lowers environmental impacts, while also increased value.
Cautionary Statement
Certain statements in this press release constitute “forward-looking information” under applicable Canadian securities laws, including statements regarding the Company's plans. Forward-looking information herein includes, but is not limited to, statements that address activities, events or developments that NioBay expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future including statements regarding the James Bay Project. These statements are necessarily based on a number of beliefs, assumptions and opinions of management as of the date they are made and are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change, unless required by law.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
NioBay Metals Inc.
Jean-Sebastien David, geo.
President & Chief Executive Officer
Tel.: 514 866-6500
jsdavid@niobaymetals.com
www.niobaymetals.com
Kimberly Darlington
Investor Relations
kimberly@refinedsubstance.com
Tel: 514-771-3398
FAQ**
How is Niobay Metals Inc NBYCF ensuring that its exploration program respects the rights of the Moose Cree First Nation while advancing the James Bay niobium project?
What specific measures is Niobay Metals Inc NBYCF implementing to foster partnerships with the Indigenous communities in the James Bay area?
Can Niobay Metals Inc NBYCF provide more details on the environmental practices it plans to adopt in the James Bay niobium project to minimize carbon footprint and ensure sustainability?
How does Niobay Metals Inc NBYCF plan to engage local contractors and create job opportunities for the Moose Cree community during the niobium project?
**MWN-AI FAQ is based on asking OpenAI questions about Niobay Metals Inc (OTC: NBYCF).
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