The Federal Government of Nigeria has vehemently denied allegations that it is conspiring to destabilise neighbouring Niger Republic.
Nigerien authorities had claimed that the Lakurawa terrorist group, allegedly aided by foreign security forces, including Nigerian security personnel, were responsible for the attack on the Niger-Benin oil pipeline on December 13, 2024, in Gaya, Dosso Region of Niger Republic.
In response, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on Saturday, signed by its acting spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, rejecting these allegations.
“The Government of Nigeria expresses condolences to the Government of Niger over the unfortunate attack on the oil pipeline, but reiterates that the perpetrators were neither supported nor assisted by Nigerian authorities.
“The Government of Nigeria is firmly committed to combating terrorism and will not condone or support the activities of such groups.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria also expresses serious concern and categorically states that there are no French military troops in the northern part of the country preparing to destabilise the Government of Niger.
“These allegations are unfounded and should be entirely dismissed,” the statement read in part.
It further emphasised that the relationship between Nigeria and France has always been cordial, founded on mutual respect, dignity, and non-interference in each other’s internal affairs.
The government of Nigeria assured that it would continue to pursue all peaceful means to maintain its amicable relationship with the Republic of Niger, for the benefit of both nations’ citizens.
