The Federal Government of Nigeria has firmly rejected claims suggesting that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) supported the recent failed coup attempt in Niger Republic. This assertion was made by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, who described the circulating narratives as "baseless" and "irresponsible."

In a statement released in Abuja, Enikanolaiye emphasized that Nigeria stands firmly against military takeovers and any unconstitutional changes in government. He stated that the country has never endorsed the military coup in Niger and will not support any attempts to seize political power through unconstitutional means.

Enikanolaiye reiterated Nigeria's commitment to being a "peace-loving nation, a defender of constitutional order, and a pillar of democracy and stability" within West Africa, the Sahel, and the broader African continent. He highlighted the importance of Nigeria's position, especially given its historical, cultural, and fraternal ties with Niger as a neighboring country.

The minister's statement followed an earlier declaration made on August 30, where the Nigerian government expressed deep concern regarding the political developments in Niger. It called for a peaceful, inclusive, and participatory return to stability and constitutional order in the country. Enikanolaiye noted that any use of force to address political differences contradicts Nigeria's objectives and long-standing foreign policy.

While acknowledging Nigeria's membership in ECOWAS, Enikanolaiye rejected the notion that this involvement equates to support for the coup in Niger. He described such suggestions as unfair and misleading, urging Nigerians both at home and abroad to disregard misleading videos and narratives that aim to create discord and misrepresent Nigeria's stance on the Niger crisis.

Furthermore, the minister 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. He assured that Nigeria will continue to collaborate with ECOWAS, the African Union, and the international community to uphold democracy, the rule of law, and promote peace and stability across the region.