The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu has stated that Nigeria’s relationship with France is strictly economic and has no military implications.
Ribadu, who made the clarification during an interview with BBC Hausa on Friday, was reacting to an allegation made by the leader of Niger’s military junta, General Abdourahmane Tchiani.
Tchiani alleged that Nigeria allowed France to set up a military base to destabilise Niger.
Describing the accusation as baseless and implausible, Ribadu noted that severing ties with France over Niger’s internal disputes is unreasonable.
According to the NSA, Nigeria’s relationship with France has always been economic.
“Our relationship with France has always been about economic cooperation, not military collaboration.
“While Niger’s leadership may have issues with France, it is unreasonable to expect Nigeria to sever ties with France over Niger’s internal disputes.
“Once again, I emphasise that Nigeria’s relationship with France is strictly economic and has no military implications.
“We will not allow our country to be used as a tool for destabilising Niger.
“We hope that Niger’s leadership will understand this and work with us as allies and brothers to ensure peace and stability in the region,” Ribadu said.