The Federal Government of Nigeria has firmly rejected allegations made by Niger Republic’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, claiming a supposed alliance between Nigeria and France to destabilize his country.
In a statement, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris described the claims as “imaginary,” emphasizing that Nigeria has never engaged in any covert or overt alliance with France—or any other country—to sponsor terrorism or destabilize Niger, particularly following its recent political upheaval.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as Chairman of ECOWAS, has led efforts to maintain open communication with Niger despite the challenging political climate. Nigeria remains committed to fostering peace, diplomacy, and cooperation with its neighbor, Idris added.
Nigeria’s Armed Forces, in collaboration with the Multinational Joint Task Force, continue to make significant strides in combating regional terrorism. Accusations of conspiracy with foreign powers to undermine Niger’s peace and security were dismissed as baseless. Idris also refuted claims that parts of Nigeria have been ceded to foreign entities for subversive operations, reiterating Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty.
On allegations of sabotaging Niger’s pipelines and agriculture, the statement highlighted Nigeria’s active support for joint projects like the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and the Kano-Maradi Railway, which aim to enhance economic development across the region.
Claims of Nigeria hosting a terrorist headquarters in Sokoto State, allegedly in collaboration with France, were similarly debunked. The recent launch of Operation Forest Sanity III, targeting threats like the so-called Lakurawa group, underscores Nigeria’s ongoing commitment to regional security.
Idris called on General Tchiani to provide credible evidence for his allegations, urging Niger’s leadership to focus on constructive dialogue rather than deflecting attention from internal issues.
“Nigeria remains steadfast in its pursuit of regional stability and will continue to lead efforts to combat terrorism and other transnational challenges,” the statement concluded.
