Niger Coup: Tinubu Dispatches Delegations To Libya, Algeria

President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria dispatched two delegations on Thursday to address the political crisis in Niger.

One delegation will engage with the leaders of Libya and Algeria, while the other will travel directly to Niger.

Tinubu, who also chairs the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, tasked both delegations to engage all stakeholders robustly.

He emphasized the need for a conclusive and amicable resolution in Niger that supports African peace and development. “We don’t want to hold brief for anybody. Our concern is democracy and the peace of the region,” Tinubu stated.

Babagana Kingibe, leading the delegation to Libya and Algeria, mentioned the importance of solidarity and coordination in such situations.

He expressed optimism that the talks would prevent military intervention.

Kingibe said, “Of course, this kind of situation requires solidarity. It requires coordination with all parties that are relevant to the situation.

“In that regard, Libya and Algeria are also very important neighbours of Niger. So, my mission is to go there with a message from President Tinubu; to brief them on the ECOWAS position and solicit solidarity and cooperation.

“We hope to find a diplomatic solution. Nobody wants to go to war, especially with neighbourly, brotherly people across the border with whom we share a common language, culture and religion.”

The ECOWAS Authority had met in Abuja on Sunday and resolved to explore “all measures necessary” to restore democratic governance in Niger, including “the use of force.”

The regional bloc also imposed immediate sanctions on Niger, including closing land and air borders.