National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has refuted allegations made by Niger Republic’s military junta, which claimed that Nigeria hosts foreign military bases.
Ribadu, speaking on Thursday in an interview with BBC Hausa, emphasised that Nigeria has never allowed foreign military bases on its soil, including from its former colonial power, Britain.
“Nigeria has never hosted any foreign military bases, including from its former coloniser, Britain,” Ribadu stated.
Highlighting the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and Niger, Ribadu noted the mutual challenges both nations face, particularly in combating terrorism. He described cooperation as essential for the security of both countries, given their shared bond and common enemies.
“Nigeria and Niger share a strong bond and a common enemy in terrorism, making cooperation vital for mutual security,” he said.
The NSA dismissed the junta leader, General Abdourahmane Tchiani’s claims about foreign bases in Nigeria as unfounded. He encouraged journalists and locals in the alleged areas to independently verify these assertions, asserting that such claims are easily debunked.
“Tchiani’s claims about foreign bases in Nigeria are specific, and journalists and locals in those areas can easily verify their accuracy,” Ribadu stated.
Contrasting the two countries’ positions on foreign military presence, Ribadu pointed out that Niger has a history of hosting foreign bases, including U.S. and French forces. He reminded the junta that Nigeria had previously warned Niger against such actions.
“Unlike Nigeria, Niger has a history of hosting foreign bases, including U.S. and French formations, despite Nigeria’s warnings against such actions,” he added.
Ribadu further criticised Niger’s recent decision to expel France, warning that the country might invite another foreign power, potentially creating fresh challenges.
“While Niger has expelled France, it now risks inviting another foreign power, potentially creating new challenges for itself,” Ribadu warned.
Despite the accusations, Ribadu assured that Nigeria remains committed to peaceful relations with its neighbours and will not act against its close ally.
“Nigeria enjoys peaceful relations with all its neighbours, including Niger, and will not be used as a base to harm its close ally,” he added.
The NSA’s remarks underscore Nigeria’s commitment to regional stability while rejecting baseless allegations that could strain bilateral relations.
