The Federal Government of Nigeria has vehemently rejected the unfounded allegations made by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the military leader of Niger Republic, who has accused Nigeria of conspiring with France to destabilize his country.
“These allegations are entirely baseless and exist only in the realm of imagination, “At no point has Nigeria, either overtly or covertly, collaborated with France or any other nation to destabilize Niger Republic or sponsor terrorism in the region.”said Mohammed Idris, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation.
Idris said Nigeria’s commitment to peace and stability in West Africa remained steadfast. As Chairman of ECOWAS, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has consistently demonstrated leadership by keeping diplomatic channels open with Niger, despite the ongoing political challenges. Nigeria continue to advocate for peaceful resolutions and stronger diplomatic ties with its neighbors.
The Information Minister further dismissed the suggestion that Nigeria is involved in supporting terrorism or undermining Niger’s security.
He said “It is absurd to imply that Nigeria would seek to destabilize a neighboring country,” he emphasized. “Our Armed Forces, in collaboration with the Multinational Joint Task Force, are actively working to combat terrorism across the region.”
The Nigerian government also rejected claims that it is sabotaging Niger’s economic infrastructure.
” Nigeria has long been a partner in promoting Niger’s development, particularly through joint initiatives such as the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and the Kano-Maradi Railway Project.
“Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity are non-negotiable,
“We have never permitted foreign military bases on our soil, and we remain committed to regional peace, stability, and cooperation” Idris added.