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The Federal Government has dismissed claims circulating on social media that it supported the recent failed coup attempt in the Republic of Niger, describing the allegations as false, baseless and deliberately misleading.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement issued on Thursday, said suggestions that the attempted coup had the backing of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and, by implication, Nigeria, were "irresponsible" and aimed at tarnishing the country's image.
The ministry stressed that Nigeria remains committed to constitutional governance and has never supported military coups or any unconstitutional change of government.
"The Federal Government of Nigeria categorically rejects these claims as baseless, irresponsible, and a deliberate attempt to misinform the public and tarnish Nigeria's image," the statement read.
According to the ministry, Nigeria is a peace-loving nation and a strong advocate of democracy, constitutional order and regional stability across West Africa, the Sahel and the African continent.
It recalled that in an earlier statement issued on August 30, 2026, the government expressed concern over developments in the Republic of Niger and called for a peaceful, inclusive and participatory return to constitutional order.
The ministry said Nigeria desires only peace, security, democracy and development for Niger Republic, given the long-standing historical, cultural and fraternal ties between both countries.
It added that resolving political disagreements through force runs contrary to Nigeria's foreign policy and commitment to democratic principles.
While reaffirming Nigeria's commitment to ECOWAS, the ministry described as "unfair, mischievous and entirely false" any suggestion that the country endorsed or condoned the attempted military takeover.
The government urged Nigerians at home and abroad to ignore videos and online narratives claiming otherwise, warning that such content was intended to create confusion and discord.
The ministry reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance and the African Union's policy of zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of government.
It added that Nigeria would continue working with ECOWAS, the African Union and the international community to promote democracy, uphold the rule of law and strengthen peace and stability across the region.
The statement was signed by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye.
