The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to diplomatic engagement with the government of the Niger Republic to secure the release of the deposed President, Mohamed Bazoum. Bazoum has been held since the military junta, led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, seized control in the West African country in July.
Former Nigerian Military Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, previously conveyed Bazoum’s challenges to a delegation of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in August. Despite the situation, Tuggar affirmed Nigeria’s unwavering stance, emphasizing the critical role Nigeria plays within the ECOWAS bloc.
Speaking on the sidelines of the United Nations Climate Conference in Dubai, Minister Tuggar assured that Nigeria would persist in its efforts for Bazoum’s freedom. He clarified that Nigeria was not succumbing to external pressure and underscored the nation’s commitment to a peaceful resolution.
“We are asking them to release President Bazoum so that he will be allowed to leave Niger. He will no longer be in custody. He will go to a third country that is mutually agreed upon. And then we start talking about the removal of sanctions,” Tuggar explained during an interview with Channels Television on Saturday.
Dispelling misconceptions about external influence, Tuggar emphasized that Nigeria was not under the control of other nations. He pointed to Nigeria’s historical commitment to justice and freedom on the continent, citing the nation’s involvement in the fight for freedom in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Angola, and Mozambique.
“There is no conflict between Nigeria and Niger. We, the people of Nigeria and Niger, are brothers. We are not against them, and don’t let anybody fool you into thinking that Nigeria is being dictated to by some other country what to do. That’s pure propaganda,” the minister asserted.
As diplomatic channels remain open, Tuggar conveyed Nigeria’s consistent stance on promoting what is right and just, drawing parallels with the nation’s involvement in global issues, including the situation in Palestine and Gaza. The minister affirmed Nigeria’s dedication to fostering a peaceful resolution to the current situation in Niger.
