By Nathaniel Irobi, Abuja
The Federal Government of Nigeria has categorically dismissed accusations made by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the military leader of Niger Republic, regarding an alleged collusion between Nigeria and France aimed at undermining the stability of Niger.
In a statement released in Abuja on Thursday, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the claims as purely imaginary. He asserted that Nigeria has never engaged in any form of collaboration with France or any other nation to instigate terrorist activities or destabilize Niger, particularly following the undemocratic shift in leadership within that country.
Idris highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s role as Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), noting his exemplary leadership in keeping diplomatic channels open for renewed engagement with Niger amidst its political turmoil.
“Nigeria remains dedicated to promoting peace, harmony, and the historic diplomatic relationship we share with Niger,” he stated. He also pointed out that Nigeria’s armed forces, in conjunction with partners in the Multinational Joint Task Force, are making significant strides in combating terrorism in the region.
“It is utterly absurd to suggest that Nigeria would conspire with any external power to compromise the peace and security of a neighboring nation. Neither the Nigerian government nor its officials have ever been involved in arming or supporting terrorist factions against Niger,” Idris emphasized. He further clarified that no portion of Nigeria has been relinquished to any foreign entity for subversive activities in Niger.
The minister reiterated the government’s robust support for senior officials committed to nurturing peace and security between the two nations. He stated, “Nigeria has a long-standing tradition of defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Unlike some countries, we have never allowed foreign powers to establish military installations on our soil, highlighting our commitment to national independence and regional leadership.”
Idris dismissed allegations that Nigeria intends to sabotage Niger’s pipelines and agricultural sector as unfounded and counterproductive. He stressed that Nigeria has actively supported Niger’s economic advancement through collaborative energy and infrastructure projects, including the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and the Kano-Maradi Railway Project.
“It is illogical to claim that Nigeria would undermine initiatives it has actively endorsed,” he remarked, also refuting claims regarding the supposed establishment of a terrorist headquarters in Sokoto State, allegedly orchestrated in partnership with France.
He underscored Nigeria’s position as a regional leader in the fight against terrorism, having committed extensive resources and lives to maintain stability in the Lake Chad Basin and beyond. Recently, the Nigerian military initiated Operation Forest Sanity III, targeting the Lakurawa threat, which has been dubbed Operation Chase Lakurawa Out.
“How can a government that is actively combating the Lakurawa threat be accused of hosting the same group within its territory?” Idris questioned.
The minister asserted that the allegations lack credible evidence and appear to be part of a larger strategy to divert attention from Niger’s internal issues. He urged the public to ignore these false claims and called on Tchiani to provide substantial evidence to support his assertions.
“Any attempts to coerce Nigeria regarding ECOWAS’s principled stance against the unconstitutional takeover in Niger are both misleading and destined to fail,” he said.
Idris insisted that Tchiani’s claims not only lack foundation but represent a perilous effort to shift focus from his administration’s failures. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to fostering regional stability and leading efforts to combat terrorism and other transnational challenges, encouraging Niger to prioritize constructive dialogue and collaboration over unfounded accusations.
