ACF Applauds Defence Chief’s Diplomatic Mission to Niger Republic: A Key Step Towards Healing Ties

Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed strong approval for President Bola Tinubu’s decision to authorize a high-profile visit to the Republic of Niger by a Nigerian military delegation led by Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa. This commendation was made public in a statement released on Sunday in Kaduna by Prof. Tanko Muhammad-Baba, the National Publicity Secretary of the ACF.

The ACF views this recent diplomatic engagement as a significant milestone in mending the strained relationship between Nigeria and Niger, which has been tense over the past year. The statement highlighted the importance of this visit in rekindling the historically warm and cooperative ties between the two neighboring West African countries.

The ACF recalled the period of heightened tension following the military coup in Niger in July 2023. This unrest led to the suspension of Niger’s membership in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the imposition of various sanctions. Nigeria played a pivotal role during this crisis, including closing its borders, enacting economic restrictions, cutting off essential supplies, and even threatening military intervention.

As the situation developed, both ECOWAS and Nigeria shifted their stance towards dialogue with the new military leadership in Niger. Meanwhile, Niger sought new alliances with countries such as Burkina Faso, Mali, and Guinea, and withdrew its forces from the Multi-National Joint Task Force engaged in counter-terrorism efforts in Nigeria’s North East, further straining diplomatic relations.

The ACF commended General Musa for his courageous and patriotic statements during his visit, viewing them as a symbol of strength in the pursuit of African unity and solidarity. The forum has urged both the Nigerian government and the people of Niger to overcome past grievances and work towards fostering a renewed and mutually beneficial partnership.

This visit is seen as a crucial step in restoring cooperation and building a stronger bond between the two nations, reflecting a positive turn in diplomatic relations that could pave the way for enhanced regional stability and collaboration.