The Federal Government, on Tuesday, said it was open to ?constructive dialogue? with the leadership of Niger Republic to de-escalate the brewing diplomatic tension between the two neighbouring countries.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, in a statement on Tuesday, reiterated Nigeria?s commitment to peace and stability in West Africa, calling for ?candid discussions to address mutual concerns? as raised by the President of the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland in Niger Republic, Gen. Abdourahman Tchiani.

Tchiani had accused Nigeria of colluding with France to destabilise his junta-led nation.

In a Christmas Day interview, Tchiani accused France of forging an alliance with militant groups in the Lake Chad region to undermine Niger?s security, allegedly with Nigeria?s knowledge.

?Nigerian authorities are not unaware of this underhanded move,? Tchiani was quoted as saying by AFP.

The Federal Government, on Sunday, refuted the claim as baseless.

In reports by The PUNCH, residents in Nigeria-Niger border communities had expression apprehension over the diplomatic tension between Niger and the junta-led Niger Republic.

In further statement on Tuesday by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tuggar, the Nigerian government emphasised its dedication to dialogue and diplomacy as the foundation for resolving regional challenges.

Tuggar said the Federal Government was open to a dialogue between the leadership of the two countries, in alignment with ECOWAS principles.

Outlining the way forward, Tuggar said, ?We reaffirm our respect for Niger?s sovereignty and territorial integrity, in alignment with ECOWAS principles.

?We welcome and encourage open, constructive dialogue between our governments and invite Niger?s leadership to join us in candid discussions to address mutual concerns. We are prepared to explore confidence-building measures, such as a collective support, to alleviate the humanitarian impact on our border communities.

?We call upon regional and international partners to support efforts aimed at fostering reconciliation and stability, rather than deepening divisions.?

Tuggar stressed that Nigeria would not encourage any actions that could undermine the security of Niger, emphasising the importance of fostering mutual respect and collaboration between the two nations.

Highlighting the historical and cultural ties that unite Nigeria and Niger, Tuggar noted the shared economic interdependence and called for calm amid recent tensions.

He cautioned against baseless accusations that could disrupt regional progress and stability.

?As brothers and neighbours, Nigeria and Niger share deep historical and cultural ties, underscored by trade and economic interdependence.

?These enduring connections are reminders of our intrinsically linked destinies.

?Therefore, unfounded allegations causes needless tensions that could cause dissaffection and threaten the collective progress of our region,? he said.

The statement also stressed that Nigeria remained committed to diplomacy and mutual respect, expressing optimism that constructive engagement would lead to a more stable and prosperous future for both nations.

?Nigeria remains guided by the principles of diplomacy, mutual respect, and the pursuit of peace.

?We are confident that through constructive engagement, we can work together towards a more prosperous and stable future for our people,? the minister added. (The PUNCH)

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