Niger’s Foreign Minister, Bakary Yaou Sangare, summoned the Nigerian embassy’s charge d’affaires, accusing Nigeria of being a “rear base” for activities aimed at destabilizing Niger.
The claims were aired on Nigerien state television on Thursday.
Relations between the two nations have been strained since a 2023 military coup in Niger ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, severing ties with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which Nigeria currently chairs.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria had briefly considered leading an ECOWAS military intervention to restore democratic governance in Niger.
Tensions appeared to ease in August when both countries resumed security cooperation.
However, the latest allegations have reignited diplomatic friction, prompting Wednesday’s diplomatic summoning.
“Despite efforts to normalize relations, we regret that Nigeria has not given up on serving as a rear base for the destabilization of Niger with the complicity of some foreign powers and officials of the former regime, to whom it offers refuge,” Sangare said in a statement broadcast on national television.
The accusations come despite earlier agreements between military leaders of both countries to avoid actions that could destabilize their regions.
Nigeria’s top military commander and Niger’s army chief had pledged cooperation during an August meeting.
Niger’s military government, which is combating jihadist threats from groups like Boko Haram, Islamic State affiliates, and Al-Qaeda, has continued to strengthen ties with Mali and Burkina Faso.
Together, the three nations, each under military rule, have formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) to bolster regional security.
Niger’s participation in the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), a coalition involving Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon, and Chad, remains crucial in countering insurgencies along shared borders.
Despite current tensions, Niger has affirmed its willingness to remain actively engaged in this security partnership.
AFP
