Ribadu denies Niger’s allegations: We refused England a base, why allow France?
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has dismissed allegations by Niger’s military leader, General Abdulrahman Tchiani, that Nigeria is colluding with France to destabilize Niger.
General Tchiani claimed Nigeria was setting up a military camp in the north, in an area between Munguno and Baga in Borno State, allegedly codenamed “Canada,” and that French troops were stationed there near Niger’s border.
In an interview with BBC Hausa, Ribadu called these claims baseless. “Even England, which colonized Nigeria, never stationed soldiers here. When France wanted to bring its troops, we refused. Why should we agree now?” he asked.
He urged Niger’s leaders to address their grievances with France without dragging Nigeria into their disputes, emphasizing that Nigeria prioritizes regional unity and cooperation over foreign interference.
Tchiani further alleged Nigeria had provided a base for French soldiers near Lake Chad and accused Nigerian officials of conspiring to destabilize Niger through training camps for fighters in Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi States. Ribadu rejected these accusations, challenging journalists and the public to verify the claims on-site.
“Our shared enemy is terrorism, not each other. We must work together to secure our communities and resist external interference,” Ribadu stated.
The strained relations between the two countries worsened after Niger’s military government accused Nigeria of harboring members of the former Bazoum administration and collaborating with foreign powers. Despite repeated denials from Nigeria, tensions remain high.
