The Nigerian government has rejected claims that it is collaborating with France to destabilize the Niger Republic. In a statement on Thursday, Information and National Orientation Minister Mohammed Idris dismissed the allegations made by Niger’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, asserting that they are purely fictional. He emphasized that Nigeria has not formed any alliance, covert or otherwise, with France or any other country to destabilize Niger.
Idris further clarified that President Bola Tinubu, in his role as ECOWAS Chairman, has maintained an open approach to re-engaging Niger, despite the recent military coup. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to peace and its longstanding diplomatic relations with Niger. The minister also highlighted the role of Nigeria’s military in combating terrorism in the region through collaboration with the Multinational Joint Task Force.
Labeling the accusations as “absurd,” Idris strongly rejected suggestions that Nigeria would undermine the peace and security of its neighboring country. He also dismissed the claim that Nigeria had ceded parts of its territory to foreign powers or allowed terrorist groups to establish bases in Sokoto State in partnership with France.
Idris emphasized Nigeria’s leadership in regional anti-terrorism efforts, pointing to military operations like Operation Forest Sanity III, which targeted terrorist threats in the region. He also refuted allegations that Nigeria was sabotaging Niger’s pipelines or agriculture and highlighted Nigeria’s support for Niger’s economic development, including initiatives such as the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and the Kano-Maradi Railway Project.
The minister concluded by urging the public to ignore Tchiani’s allegations and called on him to provide solid evidence to back his claims.
Press Release
Niger Republic’s Military Leader’s Allegations Against Nigeria Are Baseless – FG
The Federal Government of Nigeria strongly rejects allegations made in a viral video by the military leader of Niger Republic, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, claiming non-existent…
— Fed Min of Info & Nat’l Orien (@FMINONigeria) December 26, 2024