The Nigerian government has expressed deep concern over the political and security situation in neighbouring Niger following a failed coup attempt, calling for a peaceful return to constitutional order.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday, Nigeria said it was closely monitoring developments in Niger and stressed that peace and stability in the country were important to Nigeria and the wider Sahel region.
Reports indicated that a mutiny broke out in Niger’s capital, Niamey, with heavy gunfire and explosions heard around several strategic locations, including Diori Hamani International Airport, Air Base 101 and other key government positions.
The mutineers reportedly attempted to gain access to the heavily fortified presidential palace, where Niger’s military leader, General Abdourahmane Tchiani, was located and protected by elite presidential forces.
After several hours of fighting, the attempted mutiny was reportedly brought under control by Nigerien forces, with assistance from Russia-backed African Corps personnel.
Nigeria Calls for Peaceful Resolution
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the government viewed the situation with serious concern, noting the longstanding historical, cultural and fraternal ties between the two countries.
The ministry expressed hope that peace, security, democracy and development would prevail in Niger, stressing that stability in the neighbouring country would have a direct positive impact on Nigeria and the wider Sahel.
Nigeria also warned against the use of force to resolve political disagreements, arguing that such actions could undermine efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability.
“Any resort to the use of force to settle political differences detracts from this objective,” the ministry said.
The Nigerian government therefore urged the authorities and people of Niger to work together towards an inclusive and participatory process aimed at restoring stability and constitutional order.
Background
Niger has remained outside the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) since the 2023 military coup that brought General Abdourahmane Tchiani to power and removed democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum.
Niger later joined Mali and Burkina Faso—both also ruled by military governments—to establish the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), after the three countries withdrew from ECOWAS.
Nigeria, under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership of ECOWAS at the time, strongly condemned the 2023 coup and supported sanctions and a border closure against Niger.
Although the sanctions and border restrictions have since been lifted, diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Niger have yet to fully return to their previous level.
The latest statement from Abuja signals Nigeria’s continued interest in peace and political stability in Niger, despite the diplomatic tensions that have persisted since the 2023 military takeover.
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