In a significant development in Nigeria latest news today, Nigeria's and Niger's top diplomats convened on Wednesday to discuss key regional issues including border security, terror, and economic partnerships. This development marks a significant step toward the rebuilding of diplomatic ties strained since July 2023's coup in Niger.
Redoubled Diplomatic Effort Amid Tensions
Nigeria's Foreign Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, made an official trip to Niamey to meet with Niger's Foreign Minister, Bakary Yaou Sangare. This was only the second high-level visit by a Nigerian diplomat since the coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, who remains under tight custody at the presidential palace in Niamey.
The senior-level encounter follows Nigeria renewed appeals for Bazoum's release, reiterating its belief in democratic rule and regional security.
Collective Fight Against Terrorism and Border Insecurity
Both ministers issued a joint statement characterizing the meeting as friendly and productive. The focus was on their shared obstacles that terrorism and border insecurity pose before them, which the ministers indicated is a major impediment to sustainable development.
"Discussions were conducted in an environment of great cordiality and offered an opportunity to deliberate at length on matters facing the two countries," the joint communiqué stated.
Economic Projects Solidify Regional Relations
Through Nigeria latest news today, economic collaboration also topped the agenda. The ministers reviewed critical infrastructure projects, which include:
- The Nigeria-Niger Railway Project, from Kano and Katsina in Nigeria to Maradi in Niger, to be achieved by 2026.
- The Trans-Sahara Highway, to facilitate trade corridors between the two nations.
- The Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, a strategic initiative to increase energy trade.
- Customs and taxation policy reforms to simplify cross-border trade.
Geopolitical Shifts in West Africa
This move comes as there are realignments happening within the Sahel region. Niger, along with Burkina Faso and Mali, formally withdrew from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) this year. The three complained against ECOWAS's failure to respond to jihadist threats.
As a response, the three militarily-dominated regimes formed the Alliance of Sahel States, showing that they are stepping away from Western influence—especially France—and looking towards increased interactions with Russia.
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