ABUJA — The Federal Government has rejected reports circulating on social media alleging that Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) backed the recent failed coup attempt in Niger Republic.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, dismissed the claims in a statement issued on Thursday, describing them as baseless, irresponsible and a deliberate effort to mislead the public and damage Nigeria’s reputation.
Enikanolaiye maintained that Nigeria had never supported, and would not support, military coups or any form of unconstitutional change of government. He stressed that the country remained committed to democracy, constitutional governance and stability across West Africa, the Sahel and the African continent.
The minister noted that Nigeria’s position on the political situation in Niger had already been outlined in an earlier statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on August 30, 2026.
According to him, the Federal Government had expressed serious concern over developments in Niger and called for a peaceful, inclusive and participatory process aimed at restoring stability and constitutional order in the neighbouring country.
He explained that Nigeria, given its close historical, cultural and fraternal ties with Niger, remained interested in seeing peace, security, democracy and development prevail in the country, the wider sub-region and the Sahel.
The minister said Nigeria would not endorse illegality or any unconstitutional transfer of power, regardless of the individuals or countries involved.
He added that although Nigeria remained a committed member of ECOWAS, claims that the country supported or tolerated the military takeover were false and misleading.
Enikanolaiye therefore advised Nigerians both within the country and abroad to disregard videos and narratives being circulated online, saying they were designed to create division and confusion.
He further reaffirmed Nigeria’s adherence to the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, as well as the African Union’s policy of rejecting unconstitutional changes of government.
The minister stressed that Nigeria would continue collaborating with ECOWAS, the African Union and the international community to protect democratic governance, strengthen the rule of law and promote peace and stability throughout the region.
