National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has dismissed allegations made by Niger’s military leader, General Abdourahmane Tchiani, accusing Nigeria of conspiring with France to destabilize Niger Republic.
Ribadu described the claims as unfounded and misleading, urging Niger to avoid dragging Nigeria into its disputes with France.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, Ribadu expressed dismay over the accusations.
He stated, “The allegations raised by the Nigerien military leader are both surprising and frightening. What he said is false and baseless. Nigeria will never scheme against Niger Republic. Nigeria will never allow anything that would threaten the stability of Niger.”
Ribadu emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful coexistence with its neighbors, including Niger, Cameroon, Chad, and Benin. He also denied allegations that Nigeria was allowing the establishment of a French military base on its soil. “No way! There is no way Nigeria will allow any country to come and have a base here to terrorise Niger,” he stressed.
The security adviser pointed out that Nigeria has consistently refused requests from foreign powers, including former colonial rulers, to establish military bases in the country. He urged journalists to investigate the areas mentioned by Tchiani, emphasizing that no foreign forces were present.
Ribadu concluded by calling for unity in addressing common security challenges, such as terrorism, rather than fueling unnecessary tensions. “The insurgents and terrorists that we are fighting are our major problem, and we should fight them together,” he added.
