Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has countered allegations made by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the military leader of Niger Republic, accusing Nigeria of colluding with France to destabilise his country
In a viral video, Tchiani alleged that Nigeria was working against his country’s interests. However, the Nigerian government had dismissed the claim as baseless.
Speaking during a media appearance on BBC, Ribadu reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful coexistence with its neighbours.
His remarks were shared on X (formerly Twitter) by Dada Olusegun, the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Social Media.
Ribadu emphasised that Nigeria maintains cordial relations with neighbouring countries, including Chad, Benin, and Cameroon.
He stated, “There is no reason at all for Nigeria to cause any harm to the Niger Republic.”
“The USA has asked to be given a base in Nigeria and was outrightly rejected. If Nigeria could not give the United Kingdom(UK) any such opportunity in our country despite being our colonizer, why give France the same?
“The Niger President wants Nigeria not to have anything to do with France because it is now in bed with Russia, but Nigeria will continue to speak to everyone that could contribute to its economy’s potential including Russia, USA, France, Brazil, etc,” Ribadu added.
He urged journalists worldwide to visit the locations mentioned by the President of Niger to independently verify the existence of any foreign military bases as claimed.
He stressed that, unlike Niger, which has reportedly allowed the establishment of multiple foreign military bases, Nigeria has not and will never permit such arrangements.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining a strong and friendly relationship with the people of the Niger Republic, despite the current challenges.
