Nigeria has continued to maintain dialogue with the Republic of Niger through regional and international mechanisms, including ECOWAS, the African Union, the Lake Chad Basin Commission, and the United Nations irrespective of suspected row between both countries in recent times following the July 2023 coup that toppled the democratically elected President in the Sahel country.
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar stated this when he conveyed the goodwill message of the Nigerian government to his Nigerien counterpart Bakary Yaou Sangaré, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Nigeriens Abroad as the Niger marked its National Day.
Tuggar in a statement issued by the Ministry on Thursday said the Nigerien national celebration reflects the historic struggle and collective resolve of the Nigerien people in attaining self-governance and shaping their national identity.
“As a close neighbour bound by geography, history, and shared communities, Nigeria joins Niger in recognising this important milestone and honours the enduring spirit of unity and perseverance that defines the nation.
“Nigeria and the Republic of Niger share deep-rooted ties founded on mutual respect, cultural affinity, and longstanding cooperation. Over the years, both countries have worked closely in areas such as border security, regional stability, trade facilitation, agriculture, and infrastructure development, while maintaining continuous dialogue through regional and international mechanisms, including ECOWAS, the African Union, the Lake Chad Basin Commission, and the United Nations.”
Nigeria therefore reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement with the Republic of Niger and expressed readiness to sustain dialogue, strengthen collaboration, and support initiatives that contribute to peace, stability, and development within the sub-region.
It also extended warm regards to the Government and people of the Republic and wished them continued resilience, national cohesion, and progress in the years ahead.
After the July 2023 coup led by Abdulrahmane Tchiani, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, then chair of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, made efforts to restore democratic order in Niger but issues around threats of invasion, triggered bitter reactions against ECOWAS by the Nigerien junta and its domestic backers.
