FG invites Niger leader for dialogue to ease diplomatic tension
By Jeffrey Agbo
The Federal Government has expressed its readiness for “constructive dialogue” with the leadership of Niger Republic to address the rising diplomatic tension between the two nations.
In a statement on Tuesday, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to peace and stability in West Africa, urging for candid discussions to address concerns raised by General Abdourahman Tchiani, the head of Niger’s junta-led government.
Tchiani earlier accused Nigeria of collaborating with France to destabilise Niger, alleging that France had allied with militant groups in the Lake Chad region with Nigeria’s complicity. The Nigerian government, however, refuted these claims, describing them as baseless.
Residents in border communities between Nigeria and Niger have reportedly expressed anxiety over the brewing tensions.
Reiterating Nigeria’s dedication to diplomacy, Ambassador Tuggar emphasised that dialogue between the two countries aligns with the principles of ECOWAS and remains a priority for resolving regional issues peacefully.
Tuggar said, “We reaffirm our respect for Niger’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, in alignment with ECOWAS principles.
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“We welcome and encourage open, constructive dialogue between our governments and invite Niger’s leadership to join us in candid discussions to address mutual concerns. We are prepared to explore confidence-building measures, such as a collective support, to alleviate the humanitarian impact on our border communities.
“We call upon regional and international partners to support efforts aimed at fostering reconciliation and stability, rather than deepening divisions.”
Tuggar stressed that Nigeria would not encourage any actions that could undermine the security of Niger, emphasising the importance of fostering mutual respect and collaboration between the two nations.
Highlighting the historical and cultural ties that unite Nigeria and Niger, Tuggar noted the shared economic interdependence and called for calm amid recent tensions.
He cautioned against baseless accusations that could disrupt regional progress and stability.
“As brothers and neighbours, Nigeria and Niger share deep historical and cultural ties, underscored by trade and economic interdependence.
“These enduring connections are reminders of our intrinsically linked destinies.
“Therefore, unfounded allegations causes needless tensions that could cause dissaffection and threaten the collective progress of our region,” he said.
