The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has firmly dismissed allegations from Niger Republic accusing Nigeria and other member states of sponsoring terrorism. In a statement released on Thursday, ECOWAS expressed unwavering support for Nigeria’s peacekeeping initiatives and condemned the claims as baseless and unfounded.
The Commission stands firmly with Nigeria and other ECOWAS member states against allegations that they are sponsoring terrorism, the statement declared. ECOWAS also praised Nigeria’s consistent leadership in regional stability, highlighting its critical role in the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which has been instrumental in combating terrorism and fostering peace across West Africa.
Describing Nigeria as a generous and magnanimous country, the regional bloc emphasized the nation’s longstanding dedication to peace and security efforts, not only within the West African subregion but across the entire African continent.
The Commission urged member states to prioritize dialogue and refrain from making accusations lacking credible evidence, warning against actions that could undermine regional unity.
These remarks follow heightened tensions between Nigeria and Niger Republic, exacerbated by recent allegations from Nigerien military leader General Abdourahamane Tchiani. Tchiani accused Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of collaborating with France to destabilize Niger, claiming Tinubu received financial incentives in exchange for allowing French military presence in Borno State. He further alleged that the Lakurawa terrorist group, purportedly supported by foreign security forces, including Nigeria’s, was responsible for the December 13 attack on the Niger-Benin oil pipeline.
In response, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs categorically denied the allegations, reaffirming its commitment to peaceful and cooperative relations with Niger. ECOWAS’s statement underscores the regional body’s solidarity with Nigeria and its broader appeal for constructive engagement to address conflicts and maintain peace across the subregion.
The allegations and subsequent denials have reignited conversations about regional security and the challenges facing West Africa’s fight against terrorism and instability.