The Federal Government of Nigeria has vehemently denied allegations made by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the military leader of Niger Republic, accusing Nigeria of collaborating with France to destabilize his country.
The claims, made in a viral video, were described as unfounded, baseless, and a distraction from Niger’s internal challenges.
In a press statement issued on Thursday, December 26, 2024, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said, “These allegations exist solely in the realm of imagination. Nigeria has never engaged in any form of alliance with France—or any other country—to sponsor terrorism or destabilize Niger Republic.”
The minister reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to peace and regional stability, emphasizing that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his capacity as Chairman of ECOWAS, has maintained open channels for dialogue with Niger despite the political turmoil following the military takeover in the country.
“Nigeria remains a beacon of peace and a key partner in fostering harmony and maintaining historic diplomatic ties with Niger,” Idris added.
Nigeria Denounces Terrorist Allegation
The minister also dismissed accusations that Nigeria had ceded parts of its territory or collaborated with France to support terrorist activities against Niger. He labeled the claims as “absurd” and “counterproductive,” citing Nigeria’s leading role in the fight against terrorism in the Lake Chad Basin and the broader region.
He pointed to the recent launch of Operation Forest Sanity III by the Nigerian Armed Forces, a military initiative targeting terrorist groups in the region, as evidence of Nigeria’s commitment to eradicating terrorism. “How can a government actively confronting these threats now be accused of harboring the same group?” he questioned.
Strong Diplomatic and Economic Ties
The minister further refuted accusations that Nigeria sought to sabotage Niger’s pipelines and agricultural development, highlighting joint initiatives such as the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and the Kano-Maradi Railway Project as examples of Nigeria’s active promotion of Niger’s economic growth.
“It defies logic to suggest that Nigeria would undermine projects it has championed and funded for the mutual benefit of both nations,” Idris stated.
A Call for Credibility
Idris urged the military leadership in Niger to substantiate its claims with credible evidence, cautioning against attempts to blackmail Nigeria over its principled stand against unconstitutional changes in government. He emphasized that Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to fostering peace, regional cooperation, and stability would not be derailed by baseless accusations.
“President Tchiani’s allegations are not only false but represent a dangerous attempt to divert attention from his administration’s shortcomings,” he concluded.
As Nigeria continues to lead regional efforts to address terrorism and other transnational challenges, the Federal Government called on Niger’s leadership to prioritize constructive dialogue and collaboration over propaganda and divisive rhetoric.
Analysis:
Observers believe the allegations stem from tensions following ECOWAS’s strong stance against the military junta in Niger, led by President Tinubu. However, Nigeria’s consistent commitment to peace and development remains evident in its regional diplomacy and economic initiatives.
