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Niger Government Faces Backlash Over Pipeline Sabotage Allegations Against Nigeria

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Niger Government Faces Backlash Over Pipeline Sabotage Allegations Against Nigeria

By: Zagazola Makama

The Nigerien government is under fire from its citizens and regional observers following its accusations that Nigeria orchestrated the recent sabotage of an oil pipeline between Lido and Karakara in the Dosso region. Despite claims of possessing “concrete evidence” against Nigeria, the Niger government has yet to present any substantiating proof, leading to widespread skepticism and criticism.

On December 18, 2024, Nigerien authorities summoned Nigeria’s Chargé d’Affaires to account for the alleged involvement of Nigerian officials in the pipeline attack. The Nigerien Minister of Energy accused Nigeria of conspiring with foreign powers implicitly referencing France to destabilize Niger by targeting its critical energy infrastructure. These allegations arise amid heightened tensions following Niger’s withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The accusations have ignited a wave of criticism among Nigeriens, many of whom view their government as clueless and unfocused. They see these moves as indicative of a government struggling to maintain control and shifting blame to external actors to mask internal security failures.

One critic argued that the leadership is deflecting blame for its failure to secure strategic facilities and prevent attacks, Abdoulaye Boubacar, remarked, “When you are sovereign, you ensure the security of your strategic facilities.” he said.

Some observers interpret the accusations as a misguided attempt to isolate Nigeria due to its close ties with France, a nation that Niger’s junta has frequently accused of interference. “This is not about facts; this is about Nigeria’s relationship with France,” stated Abdou Pagoui, a public commentator.

Amadou Harouna, another resident said Niger’s government is at a critical juncture, and its reliance on external blame is increasingly seen as a dangerous distraction from pressing internal issues. By failing to acknowledge its own security shortcomings, Niger risks exacerbating its vulnerabilities. The economic fallout from leaving ECOWAS, coupled with internal security lapses, has already compounded the challenges facing the nation. “The decision to exit ECOWAS was shortsighted and has brought more harm than good,” remarked a regional analyst. “Blaming Nigeria or anyone else will not solve Niger’s problems.” Said Harouna.

Zagazola Makama, a Counter Insurgency Expert and Security Analyst said the ongoing tensions and unfounded accusations against Nigeria threaten to strain relations with Niger’s largest trading partner and significant economic ally. This diplomatic misstep could worsen Niger’s isolation, particularly as it navigates the fallout from its decision to distance itself from West African norms and allies.

Nigeria and Niger share over 1,400 kilometers of porous borders, making collaboration essential for tackling cross border terrorism and other security challenges. As Africa’s largest economy and a regional leader, Nigeria has consistently sought to strengthen ties with Niger, offering support in areas such as counterterrorism and intelligence sharing.

In July 2024, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, led a high level delegation to Niger to discuss regional security and enhance military cooperation. This visit marked a significant step toward rebuilding trust and addressing shared threats. However, Niger’s recent withdrawal from key regional initiatives, such as ECOWAS and the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), has undermined these efforts.

Moreover, the continued focus on external blame diverts attention from critical internal issues, including insecurity, poverty, and poor governance. As Niger’s leadership attempts to portray itself as a bulwark against external threats, it is increasingly perceive it as disconnected from reality.

Niger’s withdrawal from the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) poses a significant threat to regional stability. The MNJTF was established to combat terrorism and trans border crimes in the Lake Chad Basin. The absence of military collaboration with Nigeria may lead to a resurgence of terrorist attacks. Without Niger’s participation, the MNJTF faces reduced capacity to patrol border areas, leaving them vulnerable to increased terrorist activity. Already, there are concerns that Boko Haram and ISWAP were already exploiting this gap to escalate attacks on both sides of the border.
Historically, such groups have exploited security vacuums, leading to some of the deadliest attacks in the region. Niger’s security failures are not unique, but its approach to addressing them has been counterproductive. The blame game does little to address the root causes of insecurity and alienates allies that are essential for long term stability.

As extremist groups continue to pose a significant threat, Niger must recognize that its success in combating these challenges lies in unity, not isolation. Cooperation with Nigeria and other regional partners is not just an option it is a necessity for safeguarding the future of the Sahel and West Africa. Cooperation with Nigeria is not merely beneficial; it is essential for addressing the escalating security threats that both nations faces . Only through cooperation and a commitment to addressing internal challenges can Niger hope to achieve lasting stability and security in the region.

Zagazola Makama is a Counter Insurgency Expert and Security Analyst in the Lake Chad Region

Niger Government Faces Backlash Over Pipeline Sabotage Allegations Against Nigeria

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2027: Constituents declare support for Tinubu, Goje’s re-election

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2027: Constituents declare support for Tinubu, Goje’s re-election

Yamaltu/Deba constituents have declared support for President Bola Tinubu and Senator Danjuma Goje’s re-election ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

Dr Newton Moses, declared the support in a statement read on behalf of the people of Yamaltu/Deba Local Government Area of Gombe State on Friday in Gombe.

Moses said voting for experienced leaders in 2027 remained key to addressing Nigeria’s challenges and delivering dividends of democracy to Nigerians.

He said the group’s decision to support Tinubu and Goje was guided by patriotism, and a sincere desire to see competent, and result-driven leadership that would benefit their constituents and the country.

He said that Goje’s leadership in the past 16 years at the Senate has benefitted the constituents and given effective representation to the people of Akko and Yamaltu/Deba LGAs that make up the district.

He dismissed allegations that the people of Yamaltu/Deba have been marginalised and were demanding the seat to be zoned to Yamaltu/Deba and not Akko where Goje is from.

He said that the constitution did not impose any zoning limitation or tenure restriction on membership in the National Assembly, hence urged those seeking the seat to test their popularity through election.

“We are not part of that group saying Goje should not return to the senate in 2027; that is not the voice of the grassroots from Yamaltu Deba.

“ Goje has, over the years, built invaluable networks and acquired the experience necessary to effectively advocate for the interests of his constituency and contribute meaningfully to national development.

“ By returning Goje to the Senate, Gombe Central stands to gain even more.

“ His established influence will ensure greater access to federal opportunities, increased developmental projects, and stronger representation in critical national decisions,” he said.

The group further advised President Tinubu to stay away from those working to tarnish the good name of Goje, stating that Goje’s influence in Gombe was important for the success of the All Progressives Congress in 2027.

Moses said at a time when Nigeria is focused on economic recovery, institutional strengthening, and inclusive growth under Tinubu, it was imperative that proven leaders like Goje to continue contributing his expertise toward national progress.

2027: Constituents declare support for Tinubu, Goje’s re-election

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Hope in the Hard Times: Ashlee Momoh Foundation Spreads Easter Joy to Military Widows

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Hope in the Hard Times: Ashlee Momoh Foundation Spreads Easter Joy to Military Widows

By Comrade Philip O. Ikodor

The Ashlee Momoh Foundation (AMF), a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the families of fallen officers, marked the Easter season with a heartwarming outreach to military widows at different locations in Abuja and Nasarawa state, respectively on April 2nd, 2026. This thoughtful initiative was designed to bring joy, hope, and support to the widows of our fallen Military Officers, who have made immense sacrifices for their country.

“Easter is the season of renewal, hope, and the triumph of light over darkness,” Princess Ashlee said. “It reminds us that even after the longest winter, spring arrives and even after the deepest sorrow, there is the possibility of a new dawn.” The outreach was designed to show support and encouragement to the military widows, and to felicitate with them on the occasion of Easter.

Princess Ashlee Momoh reassured the widows that while their loved ones are no longer physically present, their legacy lives on, and AMF is committed to standing with them, supporting them, and celebrating their strength. “Today, we celebrate you, our heroes’ widows, and the sacrifices you’ve made,” she said.

The event was filled with moments of joy and fulfilment, as beneficiaries received gift items, cash gifts, and scholarship opportunities. The Foundation also announced enlistment for skill acquisition and empowerment programs, aimed at equipping the widows with the tools they need to rebuild their lives.

The outreach was a testament to AMF’s unwavering commitment to supporting the families of fallen officers, and its dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of those who have made immense sacrifices for their country. As one beneficiary put it, “This Easter, we’ve received more than just gifts – we’ve received hope, love, and a sense of belonging.”

The Ashlee Momoh Foundation’s Easter outreach was a powerful reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is always hope, and that together, we can overcome any challenge.

Hope in the Hard Times: Ashlee Momoh Foundation Spreads Easter Joy to Military Widows

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Six die, 12 injured in Kwara road crash

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Six die, 12 injured in Kwara road crash

By: Zagazola Makama

Six persons have been confirmed dead and 12 others injured in a fatal road traffic accident along the Okolowo–Jebba expressway in Kwara State.

Police sources said the accident occurred at about 6:00 a.m. on April 2 near Danjuma Bakery area, involving a Toyota Hummer bus and a stationary truck.

According to the sources, the bus with registration number BTR-161-XA was conveying 18 passengers from Lagos State to Katsina State when it rammed into a parked truck with registration number BUU-495-ZD.

The truck was reportedly driven by Kamarudeen Abdullahi, said to be from Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The impact of the collision resulted in the death of six passengers on the spot, while 12 others sustained varying degrees of injuries.

The injured victims were rushed to the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Oke-Oyi, for medical attention, while the remains of the deceased were deposited in the hospital morgue for autopsy.

Police said investigation had commenced to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Six die, 12 injured in Kwara road crash

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