We Refused England A Base, We Can’t Allow France- Ribadu
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has dismissed allegations by Niger’s military leader, General Abdulrahman Tchiani, that Nigeria was colluding with France to destabilize Niger.
General Tchiani claimed Nigeria was setting up a military camp in the north, in an area between Munguno and Baga in Borno State, allegedly codenamed “Canada,” and that French troops were stationed there near Niger’s border.
In an interview with the BBC Hausa, Ribadu called these claims baseless. “Even England, which colonized Nigeria, never stationed soldiers here. When France wanted to bring its troops, we refused. Why should we agree now?” he asked.
He urged Niger’s leaders to address their grievances with France without dragging Nigeria into their disputes, emphasizing that Nigeria prioritizes regional unity and cooperation over foreign interference.
However, in his interview with BBC Hausa monitored by reporters, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, said, “Nigeria is living peacefully with other neighbouring countries including Chad, Benin, Cameroon and the likes. There is no reason at all for us to cause any harm to Niger Republic.”
“The UK has asked to be given a base in Nigeria and were outrightly rejected. If Nigeria could not give the United Kingdom any such opportunity in our country despite being our colonizer, why give France the same?”
“Niger’s leader wants Nigeria not to have anything to do with France because it is now in bed with Russia but Nigeria will continue to speak to everyone that could contribute to its economy’s potential including Russia, USA, France, Brazil, etc.”
“Journalists across the world should go to places mentioned by the Niger leader to verify if truly there is any foreign military base there as claimed.”
“Unlike Niger who had given their base to several foreign military bases, Nigeria has not and will never do such. Nigeria will continue to be a friend to the people of Niger Republic regardless of current situation,” he said.
Tchiani had further alleged Nigeria had provided a base for French soldiers near Lake Chad and accused Nigerian officials of conspiring to destabilize Niger through training camps for fighters in Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi States.
Ribadu rejected these accusations, challenging journalists and the public to verify the claims on-site.
“Our shared enemy is terrorism, not each other. We must work together to secure our communities and resist external interference,” Ribadu stated.
The strained relations between the two countries worsened after Niger’s military government accused Nigeria of harbouring members of the former Bazoum administration and collaborating with foreign powers. Despite repeated denials from Nigeria, tensions remain high.
