The Federal Government has firmly dismissed allegations by Niger Republic’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, accusing Nigeria of conspiring with France to destabilize the neighboring country.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the claims as “absurd” and “unfounded.” He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to fostering peace and stability in the region, emphasizing that such accusations are attempts to deflect attention from Niger’s internal struggles.
Tchiani’s Explosive Claims
General Tchiani, in a widely circulated video, alleged that Nigeria and France were collaborating to sponsor terrorist activities aimed at undermining Niger’s sovereignty. Among the claims, he accused Nigeria of supporting a so-called “Lakurawa terrorist headquarters” in Sokoto State and plotting to sabotage Niger’s pipelines and agriculture.
FG’s Strong Rebuttal
Minister Idris did not mince words in addressing the accusations. “It is absurd to suggest that Nigeria, a regional leader in combating terrorism, would conspire with any foreign power to undermine the peace and security of a neighboring country,” he said.
Idris further highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s leadership as the Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). “President Tinubu has kept the doors of ECOWAS open to re-engaging Niger despite the political situation there. Nigeria has demonstrated its commitment to regional peace through diplomacy and joint development projects,” he added.
Setting the Record Straight
The Minister cited concrete examples to refute Niger’s allegations. He pointed to Nigeria’s significant contributions to regional stability, including the country’s leadership in the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF). “Nigeria’s armed forces, in collaboration with partners, are succeeding in curbing terrorism within the Lake Chad Basin. These efforts contradict any notion of Nigeria conspiring with external powers to destabilize Niger,” Idris stated.
He also referenced major collaborative projects such as the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and the Kano-Maradi Railway, which symbolize Nigeria’s active support for Niger’s economic growth. “It is illogical to suggest that Nigeria would sabotage initiatives it has actively promoted,” he added.
Operation Forest Sanity III: Fighting Terrorism, Not Harboring It
In his statement, Idris outlined Nigeria’s ongoing military operations, including Operation Forest Sanity III, aimed at eliminating terrorist threats like the Lakurawa group. “How can a government actively fighting the Lakurawa menace now be accused of harboring the same group within its borders?” he asked.
He labeled the claims as a dangerous distraction, urging Niger’s leadership to provide evidence if their allegations hold any truth. “The accusations lack credible evidence and seem to be part of a broader attempt to deflect attention from Niger’s internal challenges,” he said.
Regional Context and ECOWAS’s Role
Idris also addressed the broader implications of Niger’s allegations. The ECOWAS bloc, under Tinubu’s leadership, has been vocal in its opposition to the unconstitutional seizure of power in Niger following the coup that brought Tchiani to power. Observers suggest that the military leader’s claims may be an attempt to undermine ECOWAS’s principled stance.
“The Nigerian government will not be blackmailed into abandoning its commitment to democracy and regional stability,” Idris said.
Historical Ties and Sovereignty
Nigeria and Niger share deep historical and cultural ties, underpinned by economic and security partnerships. “Nigeria has a long-standing tradition of safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Idris noted. He further emphasized that Nigeria has never permitted foreign powers to establish military bases on its soil, unlike some other nations.
The Minister reiterated Nigeria’s full support for senior government officials who have worked tirelessly to maintain peace between the two countries. “Nigeria’s commitment to its neighbors is evident in its diplomatic and developmental efforts. Allegations to the contrary are counterproductive and baseless,” he said.
Niger’s Leadership Under Fire
Critics have suggested that General Tchiani’s allegations are a calculated move to divert attention from growing discontent within Niger. Since the military seized power earlier this year, the country has faced mounting challenges, including international sanctions and domestic unrest.
Observers argue that Niger’s focus on Nigeria as a scapegoat may be an attempt to rally domestic support while evading accountability.
Call for Constructive Dialogue
Minister Idris concluded by urging Niger to prioritize constructive dialogue over baseless accusations. “We urge Niger to focus on collaboration rather than divisive rhetoric. Nigeria remains committed to fostering regional stability and addressing transnational challenges,” he said.
He warned that inflammatory statements could jeopardize ongoing diplomatic efforts and worsen the situation in Niger. “Nigeria’s role as a regional leader compels it to act responsibly. False claims against us only serve to hinder progress,” he added.
