The Nigerian government has dismissed allegations from Niger’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, accusing Nigeria of working with France to destabilize Niger. According to the Federal Government, these claims are baseless and lack any evidence.

Since Niger’s political crisis began, Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, also the Chairman of ECOWAS, has been leading efforts to restore peace and stability in the region. The Nigerian government has never collaborated with any foreign power to harm Niger. Instead, it remains committed to fostering peace, security, and good relations with its neighbor.

Nigeria’s Armed Forces, alongside the Multinational Joint Task Force, have been actively combating terrorism in the region. Claims suggesting that Nigeria would conspire with any country to destabilize Niger are both absurd and unfounded.

Recent allegations about Nigeria hosting a “Lakurawa terrorist headquarters” in Sokoto State have also been denied. The government pointed to military operations like “Operation Forest Sanity III,” which specifically targets groups like Lakurawa, as proof of its commitment to fighting terrorism.

Nigeria has consistently supported Niger’s economic growth through joint projects like the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and the Kano-Maradi Railway. Accusations that Nigeria would sabotage these initiatives contradict its long-standing efforts to promote regional cooperation.

The Nigerian government urged the public to disregard these false claims, emphasizing that those making the allegations must provide credible evidence. Rather than shifting blame, Niger’s leadership was encouraged to focus on dialogue and resolving internal challenges.

Nigeria remains a regional leader in promoting peace and stability. It will continue working with ECOWAS and other partners to address terrorism and other challenges affecting West Africa.