The Federal Government has dismissed social media claims that Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) backed the recent failed coup attempt in Niger Republic. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sola Enikanolaiye, described the claims as baseless, irresponsible, and a deliberate attempt to misinform the public and tarnish Nigeria’s image.
In a statement released on Thursday night, September 3, 2026, Enikanolaiye said Nigeria had never supported and would never support military coups or any form of unconstitutional change of government. He stressed that Nigeria remained committed to constitutional order, democracy, and stability in West Africa, the Sahel, and the African continent.
Government Reaffirms Stance on Niger
The minister said Nigeria’s position on the situation in Niger had already been clarified in an earlier statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on August 30, 2026. According to him, the Federal Government had expressed deep concern over developments in Niger and called for a peaceful, inclusive, and participatory return to stability and constitutional order in the neighbouring country.
Enikanolaiye said Nigeria, as a close neighbour of Niger with strong historical, fraternal, and cultural ties, desired peace, security, democracy, and development for the country, the sub-region, and the Sahel. He added that 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.
Minister Condemns Misinformation Campaign
He said, “Nigeria will never support illegality or unconstitutional change of government anywhere, no matter who is involved or which country is concerned.”
“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.”
The minister urged Nigerians at home and abroad to disregard videos and narratives circulating online which, he said, were designed to sow discord and mislead the public. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, as well as the African Union’s zero-tolerance policy towards unconstitutional changes of government.
Commitment to Regional Stability
The statement underscores Nigeria’s consistent policy of opposing unconstitutional governance changes in the West African sub-region. The Federal Government’s clarification aims to counter false narratives and reinforce its diplomatic stance, which prioritises peaceful and democratic processes in Niger and beyond.
As a leading member of ECOWAS, Nigeria’s position remains aligned with regional protocols and international norms. The government’s response serves as a definitive rejection of the allegations, while reiterating its dedication to fostering stability and good governance in the Sahel and across Africa.
