(Ecofin Agency) - The regional bloc defended Nigeria and other member states on X (formerly Twitter) after they were accused of sponsoring terrorism.

ECOWAS Communique / Communiqué de la CEDEAO pic.twitter.com/w142VgoteI

— Ecowas - Cedeao (@ecowas_cedeao) December 26, 2024

Expressing “deep concern” over the allegations, ECOWAS stated, “Nigeria has supported peace and security of several countries not only in the West African subregion but also on the African continent”.

“ECOWAS therefore refutes any suggestion that such a generous and magnanimous country would become a state-sponsor of terrorism,” the organization added, reaffirming its strong support for Tinubu’snation.

This statement from the regional institution followed an interview by Niger’s leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani, on the national television channel RTN. He alleged that France, in partnership with Nigeria, had acquired equipment, trained, and funded terrorist groups to destabilize Niger. He also accused neighbor Benin of purchasing over 100 drones, allegedly supplied to terrorists in certain parts of Niger.

In response, Nigerian Information Minister Mohammed Idris Malagi issued a statement on December 26 “claiming non-existent collusion between Nigeria and France to destabilize his country (Niger, ed)”.

Press Release

Niger Republic’s Military Leader’s Allegations Against Nigeria Are Baseless - FG

The Federal Government of Nigeria strongly rejects allegations made in a viral video by the military leader of Niger Republic, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, claiming non-existent… pic.twitter.com/eNx2zZeyxI

— Mohammed Idris, FNIPR (@HMMohammedIdris) December 26, 2024

As a reminder, On December 20, Niger’s authorities accused Nigeria of attempting to destabilize their country through its pipeline project with Benin. This came after an attack on the pipeline on December 17.

Niger and Nigeria share a 1,500-kilometer land border. Nigeria also faces its own struggles with terrorism, including ongoing threats from ISIS in West Africa (ISWAP), Boko Haram, and Ansaru. These groups have targeted government forces, security personnel, and civilians in the northern and central regions, causing deaths, injuries, and kidnappings, according to the U.S. Department of State.

In 2023, trade between Niger and Nigeria exceeded $85 million, according to the International Trade Center.