The Federal Government has rejected claims that Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) supported the recent failed coup attempt in Niger Republic.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sola Enikanolaiye, described the allegations as baseless and misleading, saying they were intended to damage Nigeria’s reputation.
In a statement issued Thursday, Enikanolaiye said Nigeria had never supported, and would not support, military coups or unconstitutional changes of government.
He reaffirmed the country’s commitment to democracy, constitutional governance and stability across West Africa, the Sahel and the wider African continent.
The minister said Nigeria’s position on the situation in Niger had already been communicated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement issued on August 30, 2026.
According to him, the Federal Government had expressed concern over developments in Niger and advocated a peaceful, inclusive and participatory process towards restoring stability and constitutional order.
Enikanolaiye stressed that Nigeria’s position was also shaped by its close relationship with Niger, describing both countries as neighbours with longstanding historical, cultural and fraternal ties.
He said Nigeria wanted peace, security, democratic governance and development for Niger, the wider sub-region and the Sahel.
“Nigeria will never support illegality or unconstitutional change of government anywhere, no matter who is involved or which country is concerned,” he stated.
While acknowledging Nigeria’s commitment to ECOWAS, the minister rejected suggestions that the country supported or condoned military intervention in Niger.
He urged Nigerians at home and abroad to disregard videos and narratives circulating on social media that seek to link Nigeria to the failed coup attempt.
According to him, such content could create unnecessary division and mislead members of the public about the government’s position.
Enikanolaiye further reaffirmed Nigeria’s adherence to the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance.
He also cited the African Union’s policy of zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of government.
The minister said Nigeria would continue working with ECOWAS, the African Union and other members of the international community to defend democratic governance, uphold the rule of law and promote peace and stability across the region.
