In the aftermath of the successful coup in the Republic of Niger, President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has engaged in a series of high-level phone conversations with the United States and the United Nations.
According to a statement by presidential adviser on special duties, communications and strategy, Dele Alake, both US Vice President Kamala Harris and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres commended President Tinubu, who is also the Chairman of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, for leading the peace initiatives in Niger after soldiers from the Presidential Guard moved to depose President Mohamed Bazoum.
Alake said both leaders expressed unwavering support for Nigeria’s efforts in restoring constitutional order in Niger and reaffirmed their commitment to democracy and stability in the West African sub-region.
The US government highlighted the importance of democracy in Africa and the role Nigeria plays as a pivotal regional power and commended President Tinubu’s efforts to implement crucial reforms.
Vice President Harris also stressed the importance of embracing energy transitions in Africa, adding that it will not only mitigate climate change impacts but also contribute to economic growth and social development.
The conversation between President Tinubu and Vice President Harris also touched on Nigeria’s battle against terrorism, as she reiterated the United States’ commitment to assist Nigeria in combating security threats posed by extremist groups in the region.
President Tinubu expressed deep appreciation for Harris’s support and encouragement regarding Nigeria’s economic reforms and shared his concerns about the developments in Niger Republic, which have potential implications for regional stability.
President Tinubu stressed that ECOWAS under his leadership was committed to restoring constitutional order in Niger, and would leave no stone unturned in ensuring a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
Tinubu also urged the United States to lead the way in attracting private sector investments to Nigeria, as the country seeks to diversify its economy and attract more foreign investments.
In his conversation with UN Secretary-General, President Tinubu also conveyed his determination to find a peaceful resolution to the impasse in Niger and expressed hope that the situation could be reversed for the better.