The Federal Government of Nigeria has firmly rejected allegations made by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the military leader of Niger Republic, accusing Nigeria of colluding with France to destabilize Niger. The rebuttal was issued in a statement by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.
In the statement, the Federal Government described the claims as “existing solely in the realm of imagination” and emphasized that Nigeria has never engaged in any covert or overt alliance with France—or any other nation—to sponsor terrorism or destabilize Niger Republic.
Nigeria’s Diplomatic Commitment
The statement highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to fostering peace and stability in the region as the Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). According to the government, Tinubu has kept diplomatic channels open with Niger despite the political instability in the country, reaffirming Nigeria’s dedication to strengthening historic ties with its neighbor.
Terrorism Allegations Dismissed
The Nigerian government categorically denied allegations of involvement in arming or supporting terrorist groups against Niger, describing them as “absurd and baseless.” It also dismissed claims that part of Nigeria’s territory had been ceded to foreign powers for subversive activities, reiterating the nation’s unwavering stance on sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The statement underscored Nigeria’s achievements in combating terrorism through the Multinational Joint Task Force and ongoing military operations such as Operation Forest Sanity III, specifically targeting threats like the alleged “Lakurawa headquarters.”
“How can a government actively fighting terrorism be accused of harboring the same groups?” the statement queried, labeling such allegations as distractions from Niger’s internal challenges.
Commitment to Regional Development
The Federal Government further rejected accusations of sabotaging Niger’s pipelines and agriculture. It pointed to joint projects such as the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and the Kano-Maradi Railway as evidence of Nigeria’s commitment to Niger’s economic development.
Call for Constructive Dialogue
Minister Mohammed Idris urged the public and international community to disregard what he described as “false and counterproductive” allegations. He called on the Nigerien military leader to provide credible evidence to back his claims and focus on addressing his country’s internal issues through constructive dialogue.
“President Tchiani’s allegations are not only unfounded but a dangerous attempt to divert attention from his administration’s shortcomings,” the statement concluded.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to regional stability, peace, and the fight against terrorism, calling for collaboration over baseless accusations.
