ECOWAS backs Nigeria against Niger Republic’s terrorism allegations

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has firmly expressed support for Nigeria and other member states following accusations by Niger Republic that they are sponsoring terrorism.

Niger Republic recently claimed that Nigeria and other ECOWAS members were collaborating with France to destabilize its government. However, ECOWAS dismissed the accusations as baseless.

In a statement released on Thursday, ECOWAS described the allegations as “unfounded,” asserting its solidarity with Nigeria and the other accused nations.

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“The Commission of the Economic and West African States (ECOWAS) expresses deep concern over allegations being made against Nigeria and other ECOWAS member states.

“The Commission stands firmly by Nigeria and ECOWAS member states against allegations that they are sponsoring terrorism.

“For years, Nigeria has supported peace and security of several countries not only in the West African subregion but also on the African continent.

“The recent successes recorded by the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which Nigeria leads, demonstrate the country’s commitment to peace and security across the region.

“ECOWAS therefore refutes any suggestion that such a generous and magnanimous country would become a state-sponsor of terrorism,” the statement read.

ECOWAS also urged all nations in the region to focus on promoting dialogue and stability rather than making unsubstantiated accusations.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government of Nigeria has categorically denied Niger Republic’s claims.

Responding to allegations from Niger’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, issued a statement rejecting the claims.

“These claims exist solely in the realm of imagination. Nigeria has never engaged in any alliance, overt or covert, with France—or any other country—to destabilize Niger Republic,” Idris said.

Both ECOWAS and Nigeria continue to call for evidence-based dialogue to address regional challenges and maintain stability.