The Federal Government has denied endorsing the failed coup attempt in the Niger Republic, describing claims linking Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States to the development as false and misleading.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Sola Enikanolaye, stated this in a statement issued on Thursday and made available to newsmen.
Enikanolaye said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had taken note of a series of claims circulating on social media suggesting that the recent failed coup attempt in Niger Republic had the backing of ECOWAS and, by implication, the endorsement of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“The attention of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been drawn to a series of false and mischievous claims circulating on social media, suggesting that the recent failed coup attempt in Niger Republic had the backing of ECOWAS and, by insinuation, the endorsement of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria categorically rejects these claims as baseless, irresponsible, and a deliberate attempt to misinform the public and tarnish Nigeria’s image.”
The minister described Nigeria as a peace-loving nation, a defender of constitutional order, and a pillar of democracy and stability not only in West Africa but also in the Sahel and across the African continent.
“Nigeria will never support illegality or unconstitutional change of government anywhere, no matter who is involved or which country is concerned.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the position of Nigeria was made clear in our official press statement No: MFA/PR/2026/220 of 30 August 2026, where the government of Nigeria expressed deep concern over the situation in the Republic of Niger and urged a peaceful, inclusive and participatory return to stability and constitutional order in the neighbouring country,” the statement read.
The minister said Nigeria viewed with deep concern any unconstitutional change of government.
“As a sisterly neighbour bound by close historical, fraternal and cultural ties, Nigeria desires only peace, security, democracy and development for Niger, the sub-region and the Sahel.
“As was stated in the press statement under reference, any resort to force to settle political differences is contrary to this objective and to Nigeria’s long-standing foreign policy.
“While Nigeria is a proud and committed member of ECOWAS, it is unfair, mischievous and entirely false to suggest that Nigeria endorses or condones the military coup.
“We urge the Nigerian public, both at home and abroad, to disregard the videos and narratives being circulated online by individuals seeking to sow discord,” the statement added.
Enikanolaye said Nigeria remained firmly committed to the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance and the African Union’s zero tolerance for unconstitutional change of government.
“Nigeria will continue to work with ECOWAS, the AU and the international community to defend democracy, uphold the rule of law, and promote peace and stability across our region,” he added.
