By Zainab Bakare
The attention of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been drawn to a series of false and mischievous claims circulating on social media, suggesting that the recent failed coup attempt in Niger Republic had the backing of ECOWAS and, by implication, the endorsement of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Federal Government of Nigeria categorically rejects the claims as baseless, irresponsible and a deliberate attempt to misinform the public and tarnish Nigeria’s image.
According to a statement by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, Nigeria is a peace-loving nation, a defender of constitutional order and a pillar of democracy and stability in West Africa, the Sahel and across Africa.
Nigeria will never support illegality or unconstitutional change of government anywhere, regardless of who is involved or the country concerned.
For the avoidance of doubt, Nigeria’s position was made clear in its official Press Statement No. MFA/PR/2026/220 of August 30, 2026. In the statement, the Nigerian Government expressed deep concern over the situation in the Republic of Niger and urged a peaceful, inclusive and participatory return to stability and constitutional order in the neighbouring country.
Nigeria views with deep concern any unconstitutional change of government.
As a sisterly neighbour bound by close historical, fraternal and cultural ties, Nigeria desires only peace, security, democracy and development for Niger, the sub-region and the Sahel.
As stated in the referenced press statement, any resort to force to settle political differences is contrary to this objective and Nigeria’s long-standing foreign policy.
While Nigeria is a proud and committed member of ECOWAS, it is unfair, mischievous and entirely false to suggest that Nigeria endorses or condones the military coup.
The Federal Government urged Nigerians at home and abroad to disregard videos and narratives being circulated online by individuals seeking to sow discord.
Nigeria remains firmly committed to the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance and the African Union’s zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of government.
Nigeria will continue to work with ECOWAS, the AU and the international community to defend democracy, uphold the rule of law, and promote peace and stability across the region.
