France yesterday described as “groundless” the allegation by Niger that Nigeria had offered space in its territory to France to destabilise the former French colony.
Political Counsellor to the Embassy of France in Nigeria, Mr Bertrand de Seissan, dismissed Niger’s claim in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.
“This allegation is groundless. This has never been discussed, nor even suggested by either France or Nigeria,” the political counsellor said.
Niger Republic military leader Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani alleged in his Christmas Day broadcast that there was a sinister collusion with France to set up a military base targeted at harming his country’s interests.
The Federal Government also rejected his claim that Nigeria was harbouring the Lakurawa terrorist group to use it to destabilise Niger.
Also yesterday, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, restated the country’s unwavering commitment to maintaining strong diplomatic ties with France.
Tuggar, who spoke on Arise Morning Show, outlined Nigeria’s foreign policy priorities while addressing regional and international concerns.
He said Nigeria had no intention of severing its long-standing relationship with France, despite shifting geopolitical dynamics in West Africa.
He said: “Nigeria has no intention of cutting ties with France or any of our longstanding international partners.”
Tuggar underscored the importance of bilateral cooperation, particularly in areas such as security, trade, and cultural exchange, citing France’s role as a vital partner in fostering regional stability and economic growth.
“Our collaboration in counter-terrorism efforts and other critical areas speaks to the strength of this partnership,” Tuggar noted.
He added that recent changes within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) do not signal hostility towards France.
Instead, Tuggar framed the evolving dynamics as opportunities for African countries to redefine their relationships with international partners based on mutual respect.
“These changes provide an opportunity to reshape relationships based on shared objectives,” he said.
Tuggar said Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives are firmly grounded in its Constitution, independent of party manifestos or individual agendas.
He elaborated on Nigeria’s key foreign policy considerations: national interests, Africa’s unity, treaty obligations, and economic partnerships.
“Our foreign policy is about building bridges, not burning them,” he added, urging stakeholders to view Nigeria’s global engagements through the lens of constructive diplomacy.
Tuggar also addressed concerns about Nigeria’s diplomatic missions operating without appointed ambassadors.
He clarified that the missions remain functional and that ambassadorial appointments are the prerogative of the presidency.
“We have 109 missions globally, and they are staffed with diplomats of various ranks who ensure operations continue,” he said.
On the withdrawal of some countries from ECOWAS, Tuggar acknowledged the challenges but dismissed fears of the organisation’s collapse.
“It’s significant, but it doesn’t mean that’s the end of ECOWAS. Nigeria is focused on resolving the underlying issues,” he said, emphasising Nigeria’s commitment to the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in combating terrorism.
Tuggar reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to securing a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, emphasising the country’s advocacy for Africa’s representation.
“Nigeria’s diplomatic efforts, along with other nations, have been instrumental in pushing for Africa to secure two permanent seats on the Security Council,” he said.
Reflecting on regional partnerships, Tuggar highlighted Nigeria’s role in promoting democracy and constitutional governance.
“We can learn from neighbouring democracies as we work towards shared goals that safeguard freedoms and uphold constitutional principles,” he noted.
Tuggar reinforced Nigeria’s role as a constructive and influential player in international diplomacy, underscoring dialogue, cooperation, and adherence to constitutional values as guiding principles.
“Our approach is one of dialogue and collaboration, not confrontation,” Tuggar added, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to global peace and mutual respect.
