NSA Nuhu Ribadu Denies Claims of French Military Base in Nigeria and Rebuffs Allegations from Niger’s Military Leader

National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu has denied reports suggesting that Nigeria hosts a French military base, dismissing the claims as unfounded.

Ribadu also rejected accusations made by Abdulrahman Tchiani, the military leader of Niger Republic, who alleged that Nigeria is working with France to destabilize Niger. In an interview with BBC Hausa, Ribadu described these allegations as baseless, particularly amid rising tensions between Nigeria and Niger after Niger, along with Mali and Burkina Faso, decided to leave the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Ribadu challenged Tchiani’s claims, urging journalists to visit the locations mentioned and speak with locals to verify whether any foreign soldiers are present. “There is no doubt that the President of Niger knows Nigeria very well, but I want you, as journalists, to go to the places he mentioned and see for yourself, or ask the residents of the places if there are any foreigners, let alone soldiers from other countries,” Ribadu stated.

Emphasizing Nigeria’s peaceful intentions, Ribadu assured that Nigeria is not a threat to Niger and called for cooperation between the two countries to tackle common security challenges, especially the activities of terrorist groups in the region.

“The leaders of the military regime in Niger should understand that we, Nigeria, are not a problem for them. These terrorists, whom we are fighting, are our problem. We should confront them together,” Ribadu said.

He reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining strong ties with Niger, stressing the shared history and mutual interests of the two nations. “Nigeria will continue to work with the Niger Republic because the two countries and their peoples are brothers,” Ribadu added. “Both should unite for the development of their respective societies.”

Ribadu’s comments aim to counter growing narratives of division between the neighboring countries as they navigate regional security and political challenges.