In a sharp rebuttal to the accusations leveled by Niger Republic’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the Federal Government of Nigeria has dismissed as baseless claims of collusion with France to destabilize Niger. In a viral video, General Tchiani alleged that Nigeria was involved in sponsoring terrorist activities and sabotaging Niger’s sovereignty—a narrative the Nigerian government has categorically denounced as false and unfounded.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who serves as the Chairman of ECOWAS, has been a staunch advocate for peace and stability in the region. The Nigerian government underscored its unwavering commitment to regional harmony and strong diplomatic ties with Niger, emphasizing that it has never engaged in any covert alliance with foreign nations to undermine its neighbor.
Highlighting its dedication to combating terrorism, Nigeria pointed to its leadership role in the Multinational Joint Task Force and recent military initiatives like Operation Forest Sanity III, aimed at tackling threats in border regions. “It is absurd to suggest that Nigeria would conspire with any foreign power to destabilize Niger,” the statement noted, adding that the claims of a supposed Lakurawa terrorist base in Sokoto State are entirely fabricated.
The government also debunked accusations of sabotaging Niger’s economic infrastructure, citing collaborative projects such as the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and the Kano-Maradi Railway as evidence of Nigeria’s support for Niger’s development. “We have consistently promoted joint economic growth; to claim otherwise is illogical and counterproductive,” it stated.
The Federal Government urged the international community to dismiss these unfounded allegations, calling on General Tchiani to provide credible evidence if such claims hold merit. It further warned against using such accusations as a distraction from Niger’s internal challenges.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to fostering regional stability, combating terrorism, and upholding democratic principles. “Nigeria has a long-standing tradition of safeguarding its sovereignty and supporting peace in the ECOWAS region. These baseless claims will not derail our resolve to uphold stability and progress,” Idris concluded.
The statement underscores the importance of constructive dialogue and collaboration, urging the Nigerien leadership to focus on addressing its internal issues rather than engaging in divisive rhetoric.
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