The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has dismissed allegations suggesting that Nigeria and other member states are involved in sponsoring terrorism.
In a statement released on Thursday, ECOWAS said it is support for Nigeria’s peacekeeping efforts and condemned the claims as baseless.
According to the statement, ECOWAS is deeply concerned over the allegations being made against Nigeria and other member states. “The Commission stands firmly with Nigeria and other ECOWAS member states against allegations that they are sponsoring terrorism,” the statement read in part.
ECOWAS praised Nigeria’s long-standing commitment to regional stability, citing its leadership role in the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF). It said the MNJTF has achieved significant successes in combating terrorism and ensuring peace in West Africa.
The regional bloc described Nigeria as a “generous and magnanimous country” that has consistently supported peace and security efforts not only within the West African subregion but also across the African continent.
The Commission urged all member states to prioritize dialogue and refrain from making accusations that lack credible evidence.
The development comes amidst rising tensions between Nigeria and Niger Republic.
Nigerien military leader General Abdourahamane Tchiani had recently raised fresh allegations against the Federal Government of Nigeria. Tchiani had on Wednesday night accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of conniving with France to destabilise Niger Republic.
The Nigerien leader alleged that France promised to give Tinubu a certain amount of money in exchange for him ceding an area in Borno State for French military deployment.
The Nigerien authorities had also alleged that the Lakurawa terrorist group, with the help of foreign security forces, including Nigeria’s, were responsible for the attack on the Niger-Benin oil pipeline on December 13, 2024.
However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has debunked the allegation, assuring that Nigeria will continue to explore peaceful means to maintain its cordial relationship with Niger.
Recall that Nigeria and other ECOWAS member states imposed sanctions on Niger and mulled a military action to restore constitutional order in the country following the overthrow of President Mohamed Bazoum in July 2023.