The federal government of Nigeria, on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, said it is open to “constructive dialogue” with the leadership of Niger Republic to de-escalate the diplomatic tension between the two neighbouring countries.

The minister of foreign affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, in a statement, reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to peace and stability in West Africa, calling for “candid discussions to address mutual concerns” as raised by the President of the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland in Niger Republic, General Abdourahamane Tchiani.

Recall General Tchiani had alleged that there was a covert collusion between Nigeria and France to destabilise his country. But authorities had dismissed the claim as an attempt to blackmail Nigeria over 'the principled stance' of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) against the seizure of power in that country in 2023.

In a further statement, Tuggar said the federal government was open to a dialogue between the leadership of the two countries — in alignment with ECOWAS' principles.

Bauchi-born Tuggar said: “As brothers and neighbours, Nigeria and Niger share deep historical and cultural ties, underscored by trade and economic interdependence. These enduring connections are reminders of our intrinsically linked destinies.

“Therefore, unfounded allegations causes needless tensions that could cause dissaffection and threaten the collective progress of our region."