The diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Niger have been ruptured following the recent coup in Niger, which saw President Muhammed Bazoum ousted from office. This development has raised concerns about the future of the Nigeria-Niger railway project and its potential impact on trade and economic relations between the two countries.
In response to the coup, both Nigeria and Niger ordered the immediate closure of all land borders between the two countries. Over 1,000 trucks carrying goods worth over N350 million have been trapped at the borders for over a week due to the closure.
The Nigeria-Niger railway project, which was announced in 2021, aims to construct a 284km rail line connecting Kano in Nigeria to Maradi in Niger. The project is estimated to cost $2 billion and is being funded through loans from external sources. The construction of the rail line is already underway, and it is expected to boost trade and transportation between the two countries.
However, the rupture of diplomatic ties raises concerns about the continuation of the project and other cross-border initiatives. The closure of borders and airspace could disrupt the movement of goods and people, impacting trade and economic activities in the region.
As a result of the border closure, over 1,000 trucks carrying goods worth millions of Naira are trapped at the borders, leading to potential losses for traders and businesses. The closure also affects air travel, as airlines need to navigate alternative routes to mitigate delays caused by the airspace closure.
The situation has prompted calls for intervention from regional organizations like the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which has issued an ultimatum to the military junta in Niger to restore democracy. The diplomatic and economic challenges highlight the complex interdependencies and implications of political developments in the region.
The coup’s impact has extended beyond diplomatic relations, affecting financial assistance and international relations. France, for instance, suspended financial aid to Burkina Faso due to its support for the coup leaders in Niger. Air France also suspended flights to Burkina Faso and Mali due to the closure of Niger’s airspace.
Amid these challenges, voices like Atedo Peterside have raised concerns about the potential economic hardships that the situation could bring to Nigerians, particularly travelers to Europe. The leader of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzakky, has also warned against aggression towards Niger following the coup, emphasizing the historical and cultural ties between the two nations.
