The Federal Government of Nigeria dismissed recent accusations by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, Niger Republic’s military leader, as baseless and fabricated. The allegations, contained in a viral video, claim Nigeria colluded with France to destabilize Niger. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, clarified that these claims are entirely without merit.
Idris emphasized that Nigeria has no history of conspiring with foreign powers against its neighbors. “These allegations exist solely in the realm of imagination,” he stated. The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to regional stability and peace, highlighting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as ECOWAS Chair, has demonstrated leadership by maintaining open channels of engagement with Niger despite its political challenges.
Nigeria’s Federal Government: Refutes Claims of Terrorist Sponsorship
The Federal Government categorically denied accusations of sponsoring terrorist activities in Niger Republic. The statement debunked claims that Nigeria collaborated with foreign entities to undermine Niger’s security. Idris noted that Nigeria has invested heavily in combating terrorism within the region, working closely with the Multinational Joint Task Force to ensure stability in the Lake Chad Basin.
“Nigeria’s Armed Forces have been at the forefront of fighting terrorism, making it absurd to suggest any involvement in activities that threaten Niger’s peace,” Idris said. Federal Government also highlighted its unwavering commitment to regional harmony and counterterrorism efforts, calling on Niger to focus on internal governance issues instead of making baseless accusations.
President Tinubu’s Diplomatic Approach Praised
The Federal Government lauded President Tinubu’s efforts in managing the Niger crisis through diplomacy and collaboration. As ECOWAS Chair, Tinubu has kept the doors of the regional body open for constructive engagement with Niger despite its political turmoil. This approach underscores Nigeria’s leadership role in fostering peace across West Africa.
The statement also highlighted Nigeria’s consistent efforts to maintain strong diplomatic and economic ties with Niger. Projects like the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and the Kano-Maradi Railway are examples of Nigeria’s commitment to fostering mutual growth. Allegations suggesting sabotage of such initiatives were dismissed as illogical and counterproductive.
Baseless Accusations About Terrorist Headquarters Rejected
The Federal Government dismissed claims of establishing a terrorist headquarters in Sokoto State as a desperate attempt to tarnish Nigeria’s reputation. According to Idris, these allegations are not only unfounded but contradict Nigeria’s ongoing counterterrorism operations. The recent launch of “Operation Forest Sanity III” is evidence of Nigeria’s proactive measures against threats like the Lakurawa group.
“How can a nation actively combating terrorism be accused of harboring the same elements?” Idris questioned. He called for credible evidence to substantiate the allegations, asserting that such claims appear to be a deflection from Niger’s internal governance challenges.
Commitment to Sovereignty and Regional Leadership
Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and regional leadership. The Federal Government emphasized its historical stance against allowing foreign powers to establish military bases within its borders, a testament to Nigeria’s dedication to independence and self-reliance.
The statement also reiterated Nigeria’s support for ECOWAS’s principled stand against unconstitutional changes of government. Idris warned that any attempt to blackmail Nigeria over its leadership in ECOWAS is bound to fail, urging Niger’s leadership to prioritize constructive dialogue over baseless allegations.
Federal Government Calls for Constructive Engagement
The Federal Government concluded by urging Niger’s military leader to focus on resolving internal challenges through constructive engagement rather than making unsubstantiated accusations. The statement emphasized Nigeria’s readiness to continue leading efforts for regional stability and addressing transnational challenges like terrorism.
“Nigeria remains committed to fostering peace and security across the region,” Idris affirmed. He called on the international community to disregard the baseless allegations and encouraged Niger to align with ECOWAS’s principles for lasting stability in West Africa.
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