The Federal Government of Nigeria has dismissed allegations by Niger Republic’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, accusing Nigeria and France of conspiring to destabilize his country.
In a viral video, Tchiani claimed that Nigeria and France were behind the establishment of a supposed Lakurawa terrorist headquarters in Sokoto State, aimed at undermining Niger.
He also alleged plans by Nigeria to sabotage Niger’s pipelines and agriculture, among other accusations.
In a statement on Thursday, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the claims as “baseless and unfounded,” existing solely in the imagination of Niger’s leadership.
The minister emphasized that Nigeria has never engaged in any alliance with France—or any other nation—to sponsor terrorism or destabilize Niger.
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“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as Chairman of ECOWAS, has shown exemplary leadership by keeping the sub-regional body open to re-engaging Niger despite the political situation there,” Idris stated.
“Nigeria remains committed to fostering peace, harmony, and historic diplomatic ties with Niger.”
Idris highlighted the successes of Nigeria’s Armed Forces, in collaboration with the Multinational Joint Task Force, in curbing terrorism in the region. He called the suggestion that Nigeria would undermine a neighboring country “absurd.”
He further clarified that Nigeria has never ceded any part of its territory to foreign powers for subversive operations and no Nigerian official has ever armed or supported terror groups against Niger Republic.
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Also, Nigeria has a long-standing tradition of protecting its sovereignty and has never allowed foreign military bases on its soil, reinforcing its commitment to national independence and regional leadership.
“Nigeria is dedicated to fostering peace and security between our two nations and strengthening cooperation within the ECOWAS region,” Idris concluded.
The Federal Government reiterated its support for peaceful relations with Niger and its commitment to maintaining the nation’s territorial integrity. It urged Niger’s leadership to prioritize constructive dialogue over unfounded accusations.
