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Niger Government Faces Backlash Over Pipeline Sabotage Allegations Against Nigeria
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
News
Zulum Inaugurates 48-Classroom High Islamic College in Gubio
Zulum Inaugurates 48-Classroom High Islamic College in Gubio
… Commissions 3 projects executed by Gubio LGA
By: Our Reporter
Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, on Tuesday, officially opened a newly constructed 48-classroom High Islamic College in Gubio Local Government Area of northern Borno.

The state-of-the-art institution is designed to offer a hybrid curriculum that integrates western education with traditional sangaya (Qur’anic) educational system.

Zulum had introduced an integrated policy framework which aims to provide students with a holistic education, grounding them in both religious principles and contemporary academic knowledge.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Zulum emphasised that the college is structured to ensure its graduates are not only deeply rooted in Islamic scholarship but are also fully equipped and qualified to pursue higher education in conventional institutions.
“Our focus has been on revitalising the system by preserving its rich tradition of Islamic scholarship while introducing modern subjects and vocational skills. We recognise the historic role of sangaya education in shaping moral values, discipline, and learning within our communities, while also equipping learners with essential skills in literacy, numeracy, science, technology, foundational English, and vocational training to enable them to function effectively and competitively in today’s society.”

“Through institutions operating under the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS) approved curriculum, sangaya learners are now receiving a balanced education that integrates Islamic Studies with modern knowledge. These reforms have created clear pathways for graduates to obtain O-Level equivalent certification and, where they so desire, progress to higher institutions of learning to further develop their potential.”
The facility, in addition to the 48 classrooms, also features administrative blocks and a library. It is expected to serve hundreds of students from Gubio and surrounding communities, reducing the need for children to travel far from home for quality integrated education.

Zulum also commissioned the Gubio II Junior Day Secondary School, executed by Borno State Government. During a tour of the facilities, the Commissioner for Education, Engr Lawan Abba Wakilbe, explained that classrooms are intended to provide safe and inclusive learning spaces, with a particular focus on improving access for adolescent girls.
… Commissions 3 projects executed by Gubio LGA
Meanwhile, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has commissioned three projects executed by the Chairman of Gubio Local Government Area, Mali Bulama Mali Gubio.
The projects include Gubio Oil Mills, Zulum Ultramodern Clinic, and Mustapha Gubio Shopping Complex.
The occasions were attended by the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Elkanemi; Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno; and Members of the House of Representatives, Usman Zanah and Engr Bukar Talba.
Other dignitaries include the Speaker Borno State House of Assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan, commissioners, special advisers and other senior government officials.
Zulum Inaugurates 48-Classroom High Islamic College in Gubio
News
Yobe: Prioritize security, Buni tells newly appointed Chairman of Yusufari
Yobe: Prioritize security, Buni tells newly appointed Chairman of Yusufari
By: Yahaya Wakili
Governor Mai Mala Buni CON of Yobe State has charged the newly appointed chairman of the Yusufari local government area to consider security of lives and property as the priority of the administration.
Buni gave the warning today while swearing in Alhaji Adamu Jibrin as the chairman of the council following the death of Alhaji Bah Abba Aji some few days ago.
According to Buni, the death of the chairman has created a vacuum that must be filled for continuity in governance, and this justifies the appointment of Alhaji Adamu Jibrin as the new chairman of the Yusufari local government council.
He urged him to be a good team player for a result-oriented administration that would give members of the council and people of the local government area a sense of belonging.
Governor Buni also urged the new chairman to conduct government business transparently to promote accountability and probity as well as to channel government resources into areas of need that have a direct impact on the lives of the people.
He appealed to the people of the local government area to support the new chairman for a smooth and successful administration that would meet the needs of the people.
Yobe: Prioritize security, Buni tells newly appointed Chairman of Yusufari
News
Zulum Boosts Rural Health Incentives With Major Allowance Increase
Zulum Boosts Rural Health Incentives With Major Allowance Increase
By: Michael Mike
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum has approved a substantial increase in rural allowances for health workers as part of efforts to address the shortage of medical personnel in remote communities across the state.
The governor announced the decision after inspecting several government projects in the northern axis of Borno. The inspection covered Government Secondary School, Gubio; two general hospitals; and ongoing housing developments in Gubio and Magumeri Local Government Areas.

Under the new arrangement, medical doctors posted to rural areas under the State Hospital Management Board will receive a rural allowance equivalent to their full basic salary, representing a 100 per cent increase. Nurses and midwives serving in similar locations will receive a 40 per cent increase in their rural allowances. The policy takes effect from January 1.
Governor Zulum said the move was informed by persistent manpower gaps in public health facilities, particularly in rural communities.
“We are facing serious challenges with human resources for health. Many of our hospitals do not have enough doctors and nurses,” he said. “Our findings show that a good number of medical professionals prefer working with international organisations because the pay is better. We must respond to this reality.”
According to the governor, the improved welfare package is expected to make rural postings more attractive and encourage more qualified personnel to work in general hospitals at the local government level.
He expressed optimism that the incentive would significantly improve healthcare delivery in villages and underserved areas, adding that health workers willing to take up rural postings should report to the State Hospital Management Board.

During his visit to Government Secondary School, Gubio, the governor also directed the immediate provision of essential facilities for the school’s laboratories and library to improve teaching and learning.
The inspection tour was attended by the Senator representing Borno North, Mohammed Tahir Monguno; members of the House of Representatives, Usman Zannah and Engr. Bukar Talba; and several commissioners and senior government officials, including those in charge of information, works and housing, local government affairs, and water resources.
The allowance increase forms part of the Zulum administration’s broader strategy to strengthen public service delivery and improve living conditions in rural communities across Borno State.
Zulum Boosts Rural Health Incentives With Major Allowance Increase
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