'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - The Federal Government of Nigeria has refuted claims by Niger Republic’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, that Nigeria is colluding with France to destabilize the neighboring country.
In a press statement issued on December 26, 2024, by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government dismissed the allegations as baseless and a diversion from Niger’s internal challenges.
The statement clarified that Nigeria has no covert or overt alliance with France or any other foreign nation to support terrorist activities in Niger Republic. Instead, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his capacity as Chairman of ECOWAS, has prioritized fostering peace and re-engagement with Niger despite its ongoing political crisis.
“Nigeria has never been involved in any actions that threaten the peace and security of Niger Republic,” the statement emphasized. “Our Armed Forces, in collaboration with the Multinational Joint Task Force, have made significant progress in combating terrorism within the region.”
The government also debunked accusations of harboring terrorist groups like the so-called Lakurawa in Sokoto State. It highlighted Nigeria’s recent military campaign, Operation Forest Sanity III, designed to eliminate the Lakurawa threat. “How can a government actively fighting terrorism be accused of harboring the same group?” the statement questioned.
Moreover, the allegations of sabotaging Niger’s pipelines and agriculture were described as illogical, given Nigeria’s commitment to joint economic projects like the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and the Kano-Maradi Railway.
The Federal Government urged the Nigerien military leadership to provide credible evidence to back their claims and focus on dialogue and collaboration. “President Tchiani’s accusations are a dangerous attempt to deflect attention from his administration’s shortcomings,” the statement concluded, reiterating Nigeria’s dedication to regional stability.
COAS Celebrates Christmas with Frontline Troops, Promises Enhanced Welfare
In a show of solidarity and appreciation, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, hosted a Christmas luncheon for troops of Operation HADIN KAI in Maiduguri, Borno State. The event, held on December 25, 2024, highlighted the sacrifices of soldiers combating terrorism in the North East and beyond.
During the luncheon, Lieutenant General Oluyede commended the troops’ resilience and urged them to intensify efforts to secure decisive victories against extremist groups threatening the nation. “Your dedication is paving the way for a more peaceful and prosperous Nigeria,” he stated, reaffirming his vision of a motivated and combat-ready Nigerian Army.
The COAS assured the troops of his commitment to improving welfare programs and announced plans for new initiatives to boost morale. “Let the season of Christmas inspire you with renewed hope and vigor,” he added, conveying the gratitude of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian people.
Representing the Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Bukar Tijani, applauded the soldiers’ efforts and promised continued state government support for military operations.
Major General Waidi Shuaibu, Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, praised the COAS for his consistent engagement with frontline troops, noting that it has significantly enhanced morale. He pledged the troops’ unwavering commitment to restoring normalcy in the region.
In a symbolic gesture of support, Lieutenant General Oluyede laid the foundation for two new blocks of family accommodations in Maimalari Cantonment, underscoring his dedication to troop welfare.
The Christmas luncheon served as both a morale booster and an opportunity for reflection, emphasizing unity and resilience among Nigeria’s frontline soldiers.
