The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has commended President Bola Tinubu for authorizing a recent diplomatic visit to the Republic of Niger by a high-ranking Nigerian military delegation, led by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa.
In a statement released on Sunday by the ACF’s National Publicity Secretary, Professor Tanko Muhammad-Baba, the forum expressed its approval of the visit, describing it as a significant step towards mending the strained relationship between Nigeria and Niger.
The ACF highlighted that the diplomatic engagement marks a positive shift in the historically close ties between the two West African nations, which had been affected by the military coup in Niger in July 2023. The forum recalled the subsequent tension, including the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) suspending Niger’s membership and imposing sanctions, with Nigeria playing a leading role by closing its borders, imposing economic restrictions, cutting off essential supplies, and threatening military intervention.
As the situation progressed, both ECOWAS and Nigeria chose to engage in dialogue with the new military regime in Niger. During this period, Niger developed new alliances with other West African nations, such as Burkina Faso, Mali, and Guinea, and withdrew its forces from the Multi-National Joint Task Force combating terrorism in Northeast Nigeria. This move further strained diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Niger.
The ACF praised General Musa’s bold and patriotic remarks during the visit, viewing them as a demonstration of strength in the pursuit of African solidarity. The forum urged the government and people of Niger to move past the recent tensions and work towards renewing their partnership with Nigeria.
The ACF concluded by emphasizing the importance of restoring and strengthening the bonds between the two countries, which are vital for regional stability and cooperation.
By Ebubedike ochu
