The Federal Government has dismissed as false and misleading reports suggesting that Nigeria supported the recent failed coup attempt in the Republic of Niger.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye said in a statement he personally signed on Thursday that Nigeria has never supported, and will never support, any military coup or unconstitutional change of government.
He said allegations circulating on social media that ECOWAS backed the failed coup attempt, with Nigeria allegedly endorsing such action, were baseless and deliberately designed to mislead the public.
He maintained that Nigeria remains a strong advocate of democracy, constitutional governance, peace and stability across West Africa, the Sahel and the African continent.
According to the statement, Nigeria's position on the political situation in Niger was clearly stated in its earlier Press Statement No. MFA/PR/2026/220 of August 30, 2026.
The government had expressed concern over developments in the neighbouring country and called for a peaceful, inclusive and participatory process aimed at restoring stability and constitutional order.
“Nigeria views with deep concern any unconstitutional change of government,” the statement said, adding that the use of force to resolve political disagreements contradicts the country's long-standing foreign policy principles.
The Federal Government noted that Nigeria and Niger share deep historical, cultural and fraternal ties and that Nigeria desires peace, security, democracy and development for its neighbour and the wider West African sub-region.
While reaffirming Nigeria's commitment to ECOWAS, the government described as unfair and mischievous any attempt to portray the country as supporting or condoning a military takeover.
The Minister urged Nigerians, both within and outside the country, to disregard videos and other narratives being circulated online to spread misinformation and create discord.
Nigeria, he said, remains committed to the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance and the African Union's policy of zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of government.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its readiness to continue working with ECOWAS, the African Union and the international community to promote democracy, uphold the rule of law and strengthen peace and stability across the region.