Ex-Nigerian Envoy Advises Caution in Handling Nigeria-Niger Relations

Lawrence Obisakin, a former Nigerian ambassador to the Niger Republic, has urged the Nigerian government to exercise caution in managing diplomatic relations with Niger amid ongoing tensions.

The Nigerian government recently denied allegations made by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the military leader of Niger, who accused Nigeria and France of conspiring to destabilize his country in a widely circulated video.

In response, Ambassador Nurain Abayomi Mumuni, a senior member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), recommended that President Bola Tinubu seek support from international organizations like the United Nations or the African Union to defuse tensions and promote dialogue.

The Nigerian government reiterated its commitment to fostering stability in the region, emphasizing President Tinubu’s leadership as ECOWAS Chairman. The administration stated that it remains open to re-engaging with the Niger Republic to address political and security challenges.

During a television appearance on Sunday, Obisakin stressed the importance of careful diplomacy in dealing with neighboring countries. He stated, “Nigeria needs to be careful in its utterances concerning its neighbors because, in international relations, you can change your trading partners but not your neighbors.”