The Federal Government has dismissed claims linking Nigeria to the recent failed coup attempt in the Republic of Niger, describing the allegations as false, baseless and aimed at tarnishing the country’s image.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, made the clarification in a statement issued on Thursday, following reports circulating on social media that the attempted coup had the backing of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and, by implication, Nigeria.
According to the minister, Nigeria categorically rejects the claims, describing them as irresponsible and a deliberate effort to mislead the public.
He reiterated that Nigeria remains committed to constitutional order, democratic governance and regional stability, stressing that the country has never supported and will never support any unconstitutional change of government anywhere in Africa.
Enikanolaiye noted that Nigeria’s position on the situation in Niger had already been made clear in an earlier statement issued on August 30, 2026, in which the government expressed concern over developments in the neighbouring country and called for a peaceful, inclusive and participatory return to stability and constitutional order.
He said Nigeria views any unconstitutional seizure of power with deep concern and remains committed to promoting peace, security, democracy and development across West Africa and the Sahel region.
The minister added that, as a close neighbour with longstanding historical and cultural ties to Niger, Nigeria’s interest lies solely in ensuring peace and stability in the country and the wider sub-region.
He stressed that the use of force to resolve political disputes runs contrary to Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives.
The clarification comes days after Niger’s military authorities announced that security forces had foiled an attempted coup in Niamey, the country’s capital, following attacks on strategic government and military installations by mutinous soldiers.
