The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has stepped in to support Nigeria amid accusations of destabilization by the neighboring Niger Republic. The regional bloc has dismissed allegations that Nigeria is sponsoring terrorism, labeling them as baseless and unfounded.

The diplomatic row between Nigeria and Niger Republic began when Niger's Foreign Minister, Bakary Yaou Sangare, accused Nigeria of complicity in the sabotage of the Niger-Benin oil pipeline in Gaya on December 13. Niger's military leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, further accused Nigeria's President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, of colluding with France to destabilize Niger Republic.

However, Nigeria has strongly denied these allegations, with its Ministry of Foreign Affairs labeling them as baseless. ECOWAS has come out in support of Nigeria, reaffirming its commitment to regional stability and standing firmly with Nigeria and other member states against these claims.

The regional body highlighted Nigeria's long-standing dedication to peace and security across Africa, particularly noting the achievements of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which Nigeria leads. ECOWAS's support for Nigeria is seen as a significant development in the ongoing diplomatic row between the two nations.

The tensions between Nigeria and Niger Republic have been escalating since the military takeover in Niger in July 2023. After the coup, Nigeria and other ECOWAS countries imposed sanctions on Niger, which were later lifted. However, Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have since announced their withdrawal from ECOWAS, citing concerns over the bloc's leadership and its handling of regional security issues.

In a recent interview, General Abdourahamane Tchiani claimed that France is negotiating with terrorists in Nigeria to destabilize his country. Niger's Foreign Minister, Bakary Yaou Sangare, also expressed disappointment in Nigeria's alleged actions, accusing the country of serving as a rear base for the destabilization of Niger.

However, Nigeria's Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has refuted these allegations, stating that they exist solely in the realm of imagination. Idris emphasized Nigeria's consistent support for Niger's development through joint projects like the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and the Kano-Maradi Railway, calling it illogical to suggest Nigeria would undermine initiatives it actively promotes.

The ongoing diplomatic row between Nigeria and Niger Republic has significant implications for regional stability and security in West Africa. ECOWAS's support for Nigeria is seen as a crucial development in maintaining peace and security in the region. As tensions continue to rise, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold and what implications it will have for the region.