Nigeria denies Niger’s allegations of collusion with France to support terrorism
The Federal Government of Nigeria has dismissed allegations made by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the military leader of Niger Republic, as baseless and unfounded.
In a viral video, Tchiani accused Nigeria and France of colluding to destabilise Niger through alleged terrorist sponsorship and subversive activities.
In a statement issued by Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government strongly rejected the claims, describing them as “purely imaginary” and lacking any credible evidence.
The statement pointed out President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts, as ECOWAS Chairman, to maintain diplomatic engagement with Niger despite the political crisis in the country.
Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to fostering peace and cooperation, citing its long-standing partnership with Niger in areas like counterterrorism, energy, and infrastructure development.
“It is absurd to suggest that Nigeria, a nation deeply committed to fighting terrorism, would conspire with any foreign power to undermine the peace and security of a neighbouring country,” the statement read.
Addressing specific allegations
The Nigerian government also debunked claims that it harboured a so-called “Lakurawa terrorist headquarters” in Sokoto State, calling the accusation “ridiculous and counterproductive.”
It noted that Nigeria’s military has been actively combatting the Lakurawa threat through operations such as Operation Forest Sanity III and Operation Chase Lakurawa Out.
The government further dismissed allegations of sabotage against Niger’s pipelines and agriculture, pointing to collaborative projects like the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and the Kano-Maradi Railway as evidence of Nigeria’s support for Niger’s economic development.
A call for evidence and constructive dialogue
The Federal Government challenged General Tchiani to provide credible evidence to support his accusations. It also urged the Nigerien administration to focus on addressing internal challenges rather than making unsubstantiated claims.
“These baseless allegations appear to be a diversion from Niger’s internal issues and an attempt to discredit ECOWAS’s principled stance against unconstitutional changes of power,” the statement said.
Nigeria’s independence and leadership in the region
The government emphasised that Nigeria has never permitted foreign military bases on its soil, stressing its commitment to sovereignty and regional leadership.
It reiterated its dedication to maintaining stability in the Lake Chad Basin and beyond, having invested significant resources and lives in the fight against terrorism.
The Federal Government assured the public of its unwavering commitment to regional stability and counterterrorism.
It called on Niger to engage in constructive dialogue and collaboration, noting that baseless accusations would not solve the country’s challenges.
“Nigeria will continue to lead efforts to ensure peace and stability in West Africa, even in the face of unsubstantiated claims designed to divert attention,” the statement concluded.
