The Federal Government has strongly rejected social media claims that Nigeria or the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) supported a recent failed coup attempt in neighbouring Niger Republic.
In a press statement issued on Thursday, 3 September 2026, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, described the reports as baseless, irresponsible, and a deliberate attempt to tarnish Nigeria’s diplomatic reputation.
The clarification follows circulating online videos suggesting tacit regional backing for the military plot in Niamey.
Zero tolerance for unconstitutional takeover
Ambassador Enikanolaiye reiterated that Nigeria remains steadfast in its commitment to democratic principles and will never support illegal transfers of power in the region.
“Nigeria did not and will never support any military coup or unconstitutional change of government, no matter who is involved or which country is concerned,” the minister said. “As a sisterly neighbour bound by close historical and cultural ties, Nigeria desires only peace, security, democracy, and development for Niger.”
He emphasized that any resort to force to resolve political disputes contradicts Nigeria’s long-standing foreign policy and its obligations under the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance.
Call for peaceful dialogue
Referring to an earlier diplomatic statement issued on 30 August, the ministry reaffirmed its stance urging all parties in Niger to pursue a peaceful, inclusive, and constitutional resolution to the ongoing political instability in the Sahel.
The government urged members of the public to disregard online propaganda aimed at causing diplomatic discord, reiterating its intention to work alongside ECOWAS and the African Union to uphold the rule of law across West Africa.
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