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Niger Republic’s Military Leader’s Allegations Against Nigeria Are Baseless – FG

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Senator Bola Ahamd Tinubu

 

The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly rejected allegations made in a viral video by the military leader of Niger Republic, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, claiming non-existent collusion between Nigeria and France to destabilize his country.

In a press release issued on Thursday, December 26, 2024, the Nigerian government described these claims as baseless and existing solely in the realm of imagination. The statement emphasized that Nigeria has never engaged in any overt or covert alliance with France—or any other country—to sponsor terrorist attacks or destabilize Niger Republic in the wake of the undemocratic change in the leadership of that country.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), as Chairman of ECOWAS, has demonstrated exemplary leadership by keeping the doors of the sub-regional body open to re-engaging Niger Republic despite the political situation in the country. Nigeria remains committed to fostering peace, harmony, and historic diplomatic ties with Niger.

The Nigerian Armed Forces, in collaboration with partners in the Multinational Joint Task Force, are succeeding in curbing terrorism within the region. It is, therefore, absurd to suggest that Nigeria would conspire with any foreign power to undermine the peace and security of a neighboring country.

The press release further stated that neither the Nigerian government nor any of its officials has ever been involved in arming or supporting any terror group to attack Niger Republic. Additionally, no part of Nigeria has been ceded to any foreign power for subversive operations in Niger Republic. The government reiterated its full support for senior Nigerian officials’ untiring commitment to fostering peace and security between Nigeria and Niger and their efforts towards stronger cooperation in the ECOWAS region.

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Nigeria has a long-standing tradition of safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Unlike some nations, Nigeria has never permitted foreign powers to establish military bases on its soil, demonstrating its commitment to national independence and regional leadership.

The accusation that Nigeria seeks to sabotage Niger’s pipelines and agriculture was also dismissed as unfounded and counterproductive. Nigeria has consistently supported Niger’s economic development through joint energy and infrastructure projects, such as the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and the Kano-Maradi Railway Project. It is illogical to suggest that Nigeria would undermine initiatives it has actively promoted.

The claims about the alleged establishment of a so-called Lakurawa terrorist headquarters in Sokoto State, purportedly orchestrated by Nigeria in collaboration with France, were also refuted. Nigeria has been a regional leader in combating terrorism, dedicating significant resources and lives to ensure stability in the Lake Chad Basin and beyond.

Recently, the Nigerian military launched Operation Forest Sanity III, specifically addressing the Lakurawa threat, code-named Operation Chase Lakurawa Out. The government questioned how it could be accused of harboring the same group it is actively fighting against. These accusations lack credible evidence and seem to be part of a broader attempt to deflect attention from Niger’s internal challenges.

The public was urged to disregard these false allegations. Those making such claims, particularly the military leader in Niger Republic, must provide credible evidence to substantiate them. Any attempt to blackmail Nigeria over ECOWAS’s principled stance against the unconstitutional seizure of power in Niger Republic is both disingenuous and doomed to fail.

In conclusion, the press release stated that President Tchiani’s allegations are not only unfounded but also a dangerous attempt to divert attention from his administration’s shortcomings. Nigeria remains committed to fostering regional stability and will continue to lead efforts to address terrorism and other transnational challenges. The government urged Niger to focus on constructive dialogue and collaboration rather than peddling baseless accusations.

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BREAKING: Gov. Yusuf to Formally Join APC on Monday

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By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, is set to rejoin the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Monday, 26 January 2026, following his resignation from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) last Friday.

This was contained in a statement signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa on Sunday.

The statement recalled that Governor Yusuf first joined the APC in 2014 when he won the party’s primary election for the Kano Central Senatorial seat, a position he later conceded to Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

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It noted that after years of political engagement across different platforms, including his most recent stint in the NNPP, prevailing realities of governance, national cohesion and development necessitated his return to the APC, which he described as a familiar and structured platform for progressive governance.

Governor Yusuf stated that rejoining the APC would further strengthen cooperation with the Federal Government, accelerate infrastructural development, enhance security coordination and improve service delivery across Kano State.

He added that the decision would also consolidate political stability and unity in the state.

On Monday, 26 January 2026, the governor will formally register as a member of the APC in Kano alongside 22 members of the State House of Assembly, eight members of the House of Representatives and the 44 Local Government Chairmen.

He is also expected to officially launch the APC e-registration exercise in the state.

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NGO Sensitizes Physically Challenged on Disability Law, Calls for Speedy Establishment of Commission

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A non-governmental organization, Non-Formal Development for Education and Health Initiative (NODEHI), has embarked on a sensitization program to educate persons with disabilities in Kano State about the Disability Law passed by the State Assembly. The initiative seeks to bridge the knowledge gap among the physically challenged and push for the speedy establishment of a disability commission to ensure full implementation of the law.

Speaking at the gathering, Dr. Auwalu Halilu, Adviser to NODEHI, emphasized the importance of raising awareness among persons with disabilities about their rights under the law. He noted that many physically challenged individuals were not even aware of the provisions of the legislation.

“We gathered the physically challenged persons to enlighten them on the Disability Law and the steps required for its implementation. If strictly enforced, the law will help reduce street hawking among persons with disabilities. While the law has been partially implemented, the commission that should oversee its enforcement is yet to be established. We hope our recommendations will guide the government towards proper implementation,” Dr. Halilu stated.

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Participants at the event expressed both optimism and concern. Abdurazak Ado Zango, one of the attendees, acknowledged government efforts but lamented the lack of proper monitoring. He stressed the need for inclusive education and guidance, particularly in confronting challenges faced by disabled students in examinations conducted by JAMB and WAEC.

“Government is trying its best, but unfortunately, progress is not being tracked. We should be pacesetters in educating the physically challenged. Funds meant for disability support must be accessible and not diverted. Each ministry should have a desk officer to represent persons with disabilities,” Zango said.

Adding her voice, Ambassador Rabia Yusuf Gezawa, Executive Director of the Gender and Disability Inclusion Advocacy Center, described the sensitization as crucial for stakeholders. She highlighted the slow pace of implementation since the law was passed during the administration of former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and reintroduced under the current Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.

“The bill has been moving very slowly. Although Governor Yusuf is familiar with the law, more needs to be done. Each ministry, department, and agency should appoint directors to ensure compliance. There should also be customized instruments and interpreters to make the law accessible to all,” Gezawa explained.

Stakeholders called for the immediate establishment of the Disability Commission, which they believe will serve as a central body to coordinate implementation, monitor compliance, and ensure that persons with disabilities are fully integrated into government programs.

The program appealed to the Kano State Government to prioritize disability inclusion, allocate more budgetary resources, and guarantee that persons with disabilities are represented across ministries and agencies.

 

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Kano Commissioner Resigns, Citing Political Pressure and Threat to Office’s Integrity

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By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Kano State Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Yusuf Ibrahim Kofarmata, has resigned his appointment with immediate effect, citing the state’s “prevailing political turmoil.”

Kofarmata announced his decision in a formal resignation letter, expressing concern that the current political climate could compromise the independence and impartiality required of his office.

He argued that the growing tension and expectations of political loyalty risked creating a perception—or reality—of compromised judgment, which he said was inconsistent with the ethical standards expected of a State Commissioner.

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“The integrity of the State Commissioner’s role rests on the ability to act without undue influence, partisan pressure, or divided allegiance,” Kofarmata stated. He added that remaining in office under such circumstances could erode public confidence in the institution.

He explained that his resignation was motivated by a desire to safeguard the credibility of his office and uphold his personal commitment to ethical public service.

Kofarmata thanked the Kano State Government for the opportunity to serve in various ministries, stating that his tenure allowed him to contribute to policy reforms and the state’s development.

“I remain grateful for the opportunity to have served, and for the trust placed in me during my tenure,” he said. He expressed hope that his departure would allow the institution to function without question or constraint.

He formally requested that his resignation be accepted as official notice of his disengagement from the Kano State Executive Council.

His resignation comes amid a period of heightened political tension and realignment in Kano, sparking public debate over governance and institutional independence in the state.

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