France Speaks On Colluding With Nigeria To Destabilize Niger Republic

France Speaks On Colluding With Nigeria To Destabilize Niger Republic

France has dismissed claims by the Niger Republic accusing it of collaborating with Nigeria to destabilize the country.

The accusations were made by Nigerien military leader Abdourahamane Tchiani, who alleged that France was plotting attacks on Niger by using Nigeria and Benin as operational bases.

Speaking in Hausa during an interview, Tchiani further claimed that France had negotiated with terrorist groups in Nigeria and made significant payments to Nigerian President Bola Tinubu to establish a military base. He referred to meetings with Boko Haram and a group he identified as “Bakurawa,” possibly a mispronunciation of “Lakurawa,” a newer terrorist faction in Nigeria.

In response, Bertrand de Seissan, Political Counsellor to the Embassy of France in Nigeria, categorically denied the allegations during a press briefing in Abuja. “This allegation is groundless. This has never been discussed, nor even suggested by either France or Nigeria,” he stated.

Macron Criticizes African Sahel Nations for Ignoring France’s Contributions
French President Emmanuel Macron has also criticized African Sahel nations for failing to acknowledge France’s efforts in preventing the region from falling under militant control. Macron highlighted France’s military interventions, which began in 2013 at the request of governments in Mali and other nations, aimed at combating terrorism.

In a BBC video shared on Monday, Macron expressed disappointment as French forces began withdrawing from Ivory Coast in January, following similar exits from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. He lamented what he described as a lack of gratitude from Sahel leaders.

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“We had a relationship based on security. We engaged against terrorism since 2013. Someone forgot to say thank you. It’s okay; it will come with time,” Macron said, adding that none of the Sahel states would remain sovereign without France’s military support.

France’s military presence in the Sahel has diminished significantly as countries like Mali and Niger requested their forces to leave, reflecting growing tensions and shifting alliances in the region.

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