The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has categorically dismissed allegations that Nigeria and other member nations are complicit in sponsoring terrorism.
In a resolute statement released on the 26th of December, 2024, the regional body reaffirmed its unwavering support for Nigeria’s peacekeeping initiatives and described the accusations as baseless and unfounded.
“The Commission stands firmly with Nigeria and other ECOWAS member states against allegations that they are sponsoring terrorism,” the statement declared, emphasizing its solidarity with the nation.
Commending Nigeria’s steadfast role in promoting regional stability, ECOWAS spotlighted the country’s leadership in the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF).
The task force has been pivotal in countering terrorism and fostering peace across West Africa.
Nigeria, the statement noted, remains a “generous and magnanimous country,” tirelessly championing peace and security not just in West Africa but throughout the continent.
These developments come against the backdrop of rising tensions between Nigeria and neighboring Niger Republic.
General Abdourahamane Tchiani, Niger’s military leader, recently leveled fresh accusations against the Nigerian government, claiming President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is colluding with France to destabilize Niger.
Tchiani alleged that Tinubu accepted financial inducements from France to facilitate French military operations in parts of Borno State.
Further fueling the controversy, Nigerien authorities accused foreign security forces, including Nigeria’s, of supporting the Lakurawa terrorist group.
They linked the group to the 13th of December, 2024, attack on the Niger-Benin oil pipeline.
In response, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs firmly denied these allegations, reaffirming its dedication to fostering peaceful and cooperative relations with Niger.
The Ministry also reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to upholding stability and security across the region, brushing aside what it called “unsubstantiated claims designed to sow discord.”
As tensions simmer, ECOWAS remains steadfast in its role as a mediator, championing peace and dismissing narratives that threaten unity among its member states.