NIGERIA’S Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has begun a working visit to Niamey, the capital of Niger Republic, as part of efforts to restore diplomatic ties between the two countries.
Tuggar was welcomed by Niger’s Foreign Minister, Bakary Sangaré.
In a statement shared today via his X account, Tuggar emphasized that “rebuilding trust and promoting regional stability remain at the core of Nigeria’s diplomatic mission.”
He noted that the visit aims to renew bilateral relations and enhance cooperation in key areas such as security, trade, and energy.
Discussions also addressed shared concerns including migration, combating desertification, and reviving the Nigeria-Niger Joint Commission (NNJC).
The minister reaffirmed both nations’ commitment to regional peace and development.
Tensions between Nigeria and Niger have persisted since the July 2023 coup in Niger.
In response, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), led by Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, imposed tough sanctions and demanded a return to constitutional governance, even threatening military action.
These measures led to a sharp decline in diplomatic relations, including border closures and a halt in several cooperative initiatives.
Last month, the newly formed Alliance of Sahel States (AES)—comprising Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso—introduced a 0.5% import duty on goods from ECOWAS member states, further straining relations.