By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The Federal Government has dismissed as false and mischievous claims circulating on social media that the recent failed coup attempt in the Republic of Niger was backed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and, by implication, endorsed by Nigeria.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement signed by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, on Thursday, described the claims as “baseless” and an attempt to misinform the public and tarnish Nigeria’s image.
The ministry reaffirmed that Nigeria remains a peace-loving nation and a strong advocate of constitutional order, democracy and stability in West Africa, the Sahel and across Africa.
The statement noted that “Nigeria will never support illegality or unconstitutional change of government anywhere, no matter who is involved or which country is concerned.”
The Federal Government recalled its position contained in Press Statement No. MFA/PR/2026/220 of August 30, 2026, in which it expressed deep concern over developments in Niger and called for a peaceful, inclusive and participatory return to stability and constitutional order.
“Nigeria views with deep concern any unconstitutional change of government,” the ministry stated, stressing that its position was consistent with the country’s long-standing foreign policy.
It noted that Nigeria, as a sisterly neighbour to Niger with close historical, fraternal and cultural ties, desires peace, security, democracy and development for the country, the West African sub-region and the Sahel.
The ministry also rejected suggestions that Nigeria’s membership of ECOWAS meant it supported or condoned the military coup.
“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,” it said.
The government urged Nigerians at home and abroad to disregard videos and narratives circulating online which it said were designed to sow discord.
It further reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance and the African Union’s zero-tolerance policy towards unconstitutional changes of government.
The ministry said Nigeria would continue to work with ECOWAS, the African Union and the international community to defend democracy, uphold the rule of law and promote peace and stability across the region.
