By Sam Kayode
The multinational joint task force (MNJTF) has refuted media report that Niger, a member of the alliances, has pulled out.
A statement from the MNJTF signed by Lt Col Abdullahi Abubakar stated that Niger was still with the joint forces which was an alliance formed to cripple the back of the insurgent Boko Haram along the lake Chad region.
The statement read that “the attention of Multinational Joint Task Force ( MNJTF) has been drawn to inaccurate media reports by a section of the Nigerian media on the alleged withdrawal of Niger Republic from the MNJTF.
” We would like to categorically state that these insinuations are baseless and lack any official correspondence, and that Niger remains an integral member of the MNJTF.
“The MNJTF was established with the objective of creating a safe and secure environment in areas affected by activities of Boko Haram and other terrorist groups.
“Niger, along with other member countries, provides crucial support in achieving this mandate. We want to emphasise that at no point has there been any official communication regarding Niger’s withdrawal or exit from the MNJTF.
” These insinuations undermine the collaborative efforts and commitment of all member countries in their fight against terrorism and insecurity in the region.
“We urge media outlets and individuals to verify information from credible sources before broadcasting or disseminating it further.
“The MNJTF is committed to promoting peace, security, and stability in the region, and we emphasize the importance of accurate reporting to maintain public trust and confidence in our collective efforts.” said Abdullahi.
Niger has been in the news lately after the country’s civilian leader Mohammed Bazoum was removed from office by the military in a Palace coup.
Since military coups are no longer welcome in the African continent, the entire region led by President Bola Tinubu refused to tolerate them as a legitimate government.
Consequently, massive sanctions were unleashed on the country by the Economic Community of West Africa ECOWAS and that made the country to form alliances with sister countries like Burkina Fasso and thus became extremely rebellious against the west African leaders.
Text of the statement
Press Statement: Niger Remains an Essential Member of the Multinational Joint Task Force
The attention of Multinational Joint Task Force ( MNJTF) has been drawn to inaccurate media reports by section of Nigerian media on the alleged withdrawal of Sector 4 Niger from the MNJTF. We would like to categorically state that these insinuations are baseless and lack any official correspondence, and Niger remains an integral member of the MNJTF.
The MNJTF was established with the objective of creating a safe and secure environment in areas affected by activities of Boko Haram and other terrorist groups. Niger, along with other member countries, provides crucial support in achieving this mandate. We want to emphasize that at no point has there been any official communication regarding Niger’s withdrawal or exit from the MNJTF. These insinuations undermine the collaborative efforts and commitment of all member countries in their fight against terrorism and insecurity in the region.
We urge media outlets and individuals to verify information from credible sources before broadcasting or disseminating it further. The MNJTF is committed to promoting peace, security, and stability in the region, and we emphasize the importance of accurate reporting to maintain public trust and confidence in our collective efforts.
ABUBAKAR ABDULLAHI
Lieutenant Colonel
Chief Military Public Information Officer
Ndjamena – Chad
19 November 2023
