The Nigerian Government has dismissed social media reports alleging that ECOWAS supported the recent failed coup attempt in Niger, insisting that Nigeria does not back military takeovers or any unconstitutional change of government.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, described the reports as “baseless, irresponsible” and an attempt to mislead the public and damage Nigeria’s reputation.
In a statement, Enikanolaiye said Nigeria remained committed to peace, democratic governance and constitutional order, both within West Africa and across the African continent.
He said Nigeria’s foreign policy had consistently opposed attempts to seize power through unconstitutional means, regardless of where such actions occurred or who was responsible.
The Minister referred to the government’s position on the situation in Niger, outlined in a Ministry of Foreign Affairs press statement issued on August 30, 2026.
He said Nigeria had expressed serious concern over the developments in the neighbouring country and called for a peaceful and inclusive process to restore stability and constitutional governance.
According to Enikanolaiye, Nigeria’s opposition to unconstitutional changes of government reflected its established foreign policy and commitment to democratic principles.
He added that Nigeria’s longstanding historical, cultural and fraternal ties with Niger had strengthened its interest in promoting peace, security, democracy and development in the country and the wider Sahel region.
“Any resort to force to settle political differences is contrary to this objective and to Nigeria’s long-standing foreign policy,” he said.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s membership of and commitment to ECOWAS, Enikanolaiye dismissed claims that Nigeria had approved or supported the military takeover in Niger as “unfair, mischievous and entirely false”.
He urged Nigerians in the country and abroad to ignore videos and messages circulating online, saying they were being spread by people attempting to create division.
The Minister also reaffirmed Nigeria’s adherence to the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance and the African Union’s policy against unconstitutional changes of government.
He said Nigeria would continue to work with ECOWAS, the African Union and other international partners to protect democratic governance, strengthen the rule of law and promote peace and stability across the region.
