Nigeria Denies Involvement in Niger-Benin Oil Pipeline Attack

The Federal Government has condemned the attack on the Niger-Benin oil pipeline in Gaya, Dosso Region, Niger Republic.

In a statement provided to Investors King by the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, on Saturday, December 21, the Nigerian Government expressed sympathy to the Nigerien authorities over the attack, which has significantly impacted the country’s oil sector.

Ebienfa categorically denied allegations made by Nigerien authorities linking Nigeria to the attack.

He also dismissed claims of Nigeria’s collaboration with the Lakurawa terrorist group or any involvement of Nigerian security forces in the incident.

It is worth recalling that, following the December 13 attack, the government of Niger accused Nigeria of being complicit. Addressing these accusations, Ebienfa said: “The Federal Government of Nigeria refutes in very strong terms allegations by the Nigerien authorities that the Lakurawa terrorist group, with the help of foreign security forces, including Nigerian security forces, was responsible for the attack on the Niger-Benin oil pipeline on the 13th of December 2024, in Gaya, Dosso Region of Niger Republic.”

Regarding Nigeria’s alleged involvement, Ebienfa added: “The Government of Nigeria condoles with the Government of Niger over the unfortunate attack on the oil pipeline but affirms that the perpetrators were neither backed nor assisted by Nigerian authorities. The Government of Nigeria is strongly committed to the fight against terrorism and will not condone or support the activities of such groups.”

Responding to claims about French military involvement, he stated: “The Federal Government of Nigeria also expresses very serious concern and categorically states that there are no French military troops in the northern part of the country preparing to destabilize the Government of Niger. These allegations are unfounded and should be discarded in their entirety.”

On Nigeria’s relationship with France, he clarified: “It is important to state that the relationship between Nigeria and France has always been cordial, guided by mutual respect, dignity, and non-interference in each other’s internal affairs.

“Nigeria will continue to explore all peaceful means to maintain its cordial relationship with the Republic of Niger for the benefit of the people of both countries,” the statement concluded.