Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, has denied alleged Nigeria’s involvement in the recent failed coup in the Republic.

Enikanolaiye was reacting to claims circulating on social media that the failed coup attempt had the backing of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and, by insinuation, the endorsement of the Nigerian government.

Describing the speculations as mischievous, the government said it categorically rejects such claims as baseless, irresponsible and a deliberate attempt to misinform the public and tarnish the image of the country.

The Minister, in the statement issued yesterday, stated that Nigeria is a peace-loving nation, a defender of constitutional order and a pillar of democracy and stability not only in West Africa but also in the Sahel region and the continent of Africa.

Consequently, he maintained that Nigeria had never and would not be a party to unconstitutional change of government.

“Nigeria will never support illegality or unconstitutional change of government anywhere, no matter who is involved or which country is concerned.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the position of Nigeria was made clear in our official press statement No: MFA/PR/2026/220 of August 30, where the government expressed deep concern over the situation in Niger and called for a peaceful, inclusive and participatory return to stability and constitutional order in the neighbouring country.

“Nigeria views with deep concern any unconstitutional change of government. As a sisterly neighbour bound by close historical, fraternal and cultural ties, Nigeria desires only peace, security, democracy and development for Niger, the sub-region and the Sahel.”

According to the minister, any resort to force to settle political differences is contrary to the country’s long-standing foreign policy, stressing that while it is a proud and committed member of ECOWAS, it is unfair, mischievous and entirely false to suggest that Nigeria endorses or condones the military coup.

“We urge the Nigerian public both at home and abroad to disregard the videos and narratives being circulated online by individuals seeking to sow discord.

“Nigeria remains firmly committed to the ECOWAS Protocol on democracy and good governance as well as the African Union’s zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of government.

“It will continue to work with ECOWAS, the AU and international community to defend democracy, uphold the rule of law and promote peace and stability across our region”, the statement read.