Former Nigerian president Olusegun Obasanjo has said Nigeria might not have won the 1967–1970 civil war without support from neighbouring Niger Republic, highlighting the country’s historical role in supplying materials to Nigerian troops.

Speaking on a television programme aired on News Central, Obasanjo said logistical support routed through Niger Republic was crucial to sustaining Nigeria’s war effort during the conflict, which lasted from July 1967 to January 1970.

“Without Niger Republic, winning the civil war would have been hard,” Obasanjo said, noting that materials were transported through the country to reach Nigerian forces at the frontline.

The former military head of state, who ruled Nigeria between 1976 and 1979 before returning as a civilian president from 1999 to 2007, used the remarks to criticise Nigeria’s current foreign policy posture in West Africa.

He expressed concern over the deterioration of relations between Nigeria and Niger Republic following the July 2023 coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, particularly Abuja’s decision to close borders and cut electricity supply to the neighbouring country.

Obasanjo said such actions overlooked longstanding ties between the two countries, including Niger’s contribution to the construction of the Kainji Dam, a major hydroelectric facility in Nigeria.

“When we were building the Kainji Dam… we made commitments to Niger Republic regarding electricity because of their cooperation,” he said.

The elder statesman also lamented what he described as Nigeria’s declining influence on the African continent, arguing that the country has lost its leadership role in shaping regional policies and diplomacy.

“Today, Nigeria is not at the table,” he said, questioning the country’s relevance in continental affairs and its ability to influence decisions within regional blocs such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

He further criticised Nigeria’s handling of ECOWAS, saying decades of diplomatic investment in the regional body had been undermined by recent actions.

Obasanjo recalled Nigeria’s historical contributions to liberation struggles across Africa, including financial and political support for countries like Angola and South Africa during their fights against colonialism and apartheid.