Nigeria Denies Involvement in Niger Coup Attempt

On September 3, 2026, Nigeria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement denying claims that the country supported the recent failed coup attempt in the Niger Republic, which occurred on August 29. The ministry rejected allegations that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Nigerian government were involved in the coup, labeling these claims as false and damaging to Nigeria's reputation.

The attempted coup involved mutinous soldiers attacking key military and government facilities in Niamey. Nigeria reiterated its commitment to peace, constitutional order, and democratic stability in West Africa, stating it does not endorse illegal or unconstitutional changes of government.

The government had previously expressed concern over the situation in Niger on August 30, advocating for a peaceful return to stability. Nigeria's longstanding foreign policy opposes the use of force for political resolution, and the government urged citizens to disregard misleading narratives linking Nigeria to the coup attempt.