The Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) has said that Niger Republic remains an integral member of the regional force, refuting report of its withdrawal.
The media was awashed with a report of purported withdrawal of Niger Republic from the regional force saddled with fighting insurgency in the North-East Nigeria and in the Sahel region.
The purported withdrawal of the country from MNJTF was attributed to the ouster of democratically elected President Mohammed Bazoum on July 26, 2023 in a bloodless coup d’etat.
Recall that in response to the coup d’etat, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) sanctioned the military junta demanding the reinstatement of President Bazoun.
However, ECOWAS has failed to restore democracy and, hence the continued political pressure, a move resisted by the junta.
However, a statement by the Chief Military Public Relations Officer of MNJTF, Lt. Col. Abubakar Abdullahi, said the insinuations were baseless and lacked any official correspondence, adding that Niger Republic remained an integral member of the MNJTF.
He said, “the MNJTF was established with the objective of creating a safe and secure environment in areas affected by activities of Boko Haram and other terrorist groups.
“Niger, along with other member countries, provides crucial support in achieving this mandate. We want to emphasize that at no point has there been any official communication regarding Niger’s withdrawal or exit from the MNJTF.
“These insinuations undermine the collaborative efforts and commitment of all member countries in their fight against terrorism and insecurity in the region.”
He, therefore, urged media outlets and individuals to verify information from credible sources before broadcasting or disseminating it further.
He restated that the MNJTF remains committed to promoting peace, security, and stability in the region.
He called for accurate reportage to maintain public trust and confidence in the collective efforts.
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