Niger Denies Destabilisation Plot, Welcomes Diplomatic Breakthrough with Nigeria

Niger Denies Destabilisation Plot, Welcomes Diplomatic Breakthrough with Nigeria

By: Zagazola Makama

Authorities in the Republic of Niger have expressed satisfaction with the renewed diplomatic engagement between Niamey and Abuja, following a high-level visit by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to the Nigerien capital.

The visit, which marks a turning point in bilateral relations after months of tension, has reportedly led to the dismantling of alleged foreign military installations and covert activities previously blamed for fuelling insecurity in the region.

According to media reports aired by Niger’s state-owned broadcaster, RTN, two suspected foreign military camps located at Guigani and Garin-Kata in Nigeria near the Niger border, which were allegedly used to destabilise Niger, have now been shut down.

Similarly, the broadcaster claimed that a controversial logistics highway, said to be under construction from Kandi in Benin Republic through Sokoto in Nigeria, was intended to support subversive operations against Niger but has now been discontinued.

In a strongly worded segment, RTN alleged that a forest enclave at Gaba, near the Sokoto–Niger border, was previously being used by armed elements allegedly backed by foreign powers, including France, Nigeria, and Benin, in a covert operation codenamed “Chibok 2.0.” That base, it said, has now been “cleared.”

Other claims aired include the dismantling of a suspected training base in the Lake Chad region, and the quiet departure of foreign military instructors allegedly operating under false national identities.

While these allegations have not been independently verified, Nigerien authorities described the diplomatic mission by Nigeria as a “wise and courageous step” that will foster peace, security, and regional cooperation.

The RTN report also urged vigilance against disinformation and called on the public to remain prayerful for improved relations with neighbouring Benin Republic, particularly in anticipation of reopening long-closed borders.

Regional analysts say the latest developments signal a positive shift, though tensions persist around narratives of foreign interference and sabotage, especially amid ongoing insecurity in border communities.

Efforts are ongoing to establish a joint consultative forum between Nigeria and Niger to address mutual security concerns and promote cross-border stability.

Niger Denies Destabilisation Plot, Welcomes Diplomatic Breakthrough with Nigeria