ABUJA – The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly denied allegations made by the military leader of Niger Republic, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, claiming that Nigeria and France are collaborating to destabilize his country.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the allegations as baseless and unfounded.
According to the Minister, Nigeria has never engaged in any overt or covert alliance with France or any other country to sponsor terrorist attacks or destabilize the Niger Republic.
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The government emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated exemplary leadership as Chairman of ECOWAS, keeping the doors of the sub-regional body open to re-engaging Niger Republic despite the political situation in the country.
The Minister also highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to fostering regional stability and leading efforts to address terrorism and other transnational challenges.
“Nigeria’s Armed Forces, in collaboration with partners in the Multinational Joint Task Force, are succeeding in curbing terrorism within the region,” the Minister said.
The government also denied specific allegations made by General Tchiani, including claims of Nigeria seeking to sabotage Niger’s pipelines and agriculture.
The Minister described these allegations as unfounded and counterproductive, highlighting Nigeria’s consistent support for Niger’s economic development through joint energy and infrastructure projects.
The government also denied allegations of establishing a terrorist headquarters in Sokoto State, citing Nigeria’s regional leadership in combating terrorism and its dedication to ensuring stability in the Lake Chad Basin and beyond.
The Minister urged the public to disregard the false allegations and called on those making the claims to provide credible evidence to substantiate them.
The government also urged Niger to focus on constructive dialogue and collaboration rather than peddling baseless accusations.
The denial comes amid rising tensions between Nigeria and Niger Republic following the military takeover in the latter country.