Communities along the Nigeria-Niger border are expressing deep concern over escalating tensions between the two nations, following claims by Niger’s military leader, Brigadier General Abdourahmane Tchiani, accusing Nigeria of harboring French troops and supporting destabilization efforts.
In an interview on Christmas Day, Tchiani alleged that Nigeria provided bases for French soldiers near Lake Chad and established training camps for terrorists in Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara states. However, the Nigerian government has firmly denied these allegations. National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu labeled them “baseless” and “false,” while Minister of Information Mohammed Idris described the accusations as a diversionary tactic to mask Niger’s internal challenges.
Residents of border towns in Sokoto, Katsina, and Borno states have dismissed Tchiani’s claims, emphasizing their long-standing peaceful coexistence with neighboring Nigerien communities. Leaders in these towns are calling for a swift resolution to avoid disrupting the harmony and economic activities that sustain both sides.
Muhammad Illiyasu, Magaji of Balle in Sokoto State’s Gudu Local Government Area, rejected the allegations, saying, “I have been here for over 30 years and have never seen French soldiers or any such military presence. We appeal to both governments to resolve their differences amicably and not involve the masses in political disputes.”
Similarly, Nigerien cattle trader Muhammad Altine, who operates in Tangaza Local Government Area, dismissed the claims, citing over two decades of familiarity with the area.
Residents recall the economic hardship experienced during the 2023-2024 border closure imposed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) following Niger’s coup. The sanctions included closing land and air borders, cutting off electricity supply, and suspending commercial transactions.
“As a trans-border trader, I never want to relive the struggles we faced during the border closure,” said Hassan Tabani, a trader in Sokoto. “Businesses collapsed, and survival became a daily challenge.”
Dr. Murtala Ahmed Rufai of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, described Tchiani’s allegations as unfounded, attributing them to political miscalculations. “Nigeria has a democratic system and longstanding historical ties with Niger. It’s illogical to accuse Nigeria of harboring camps to destabilize a neighboring country,” Rufai said.
Despite the tensions, many border residents remain optimistic. In Borno State, Gudumbali resident Mishemi Yahaya said, “We’ve lived peacefully with our Nigerien neighbors. Any policies causing disharmony should be avoided.”
In Katsina, a community leader in Jibia Local Government Area criticized Tchiani’s claims as politically motivated. “About 70% of border residents dismiss these allegations as baseless,” he noted.
With economic interdependence between Nigeria and Niger, including cross-border trade in cattle, agricultural products, and building materials, border communities are urging both nations to prioritize dialogue and collaboration over conflict.
As tensions continue to simmer, the call for peaceful coexistence grows louder, with residents emphasizing that the historical and cultural bonds between the two countries must not be severed.