The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has emphasized that the Armed Forces of Nigeria must receive approval from the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS before undertaking any operation in an ECOWAS member state.

The DHQ stated that military action in response to the coup d’état in Niger Republic, which ousted President Mohammed Bazoum, would be the final option.

In a statement signed by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Director of Defence Information, the DHQ clarified that ECOWAS Heads of State and Government are exploring alternative solutions.

The report refuted claims of the Armed Forces assembling for military action in Niger without proper authorization.

ECOWAS, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria, has imposed severe sanctions on Niger in response to the political crisis triggered by the coup, while Guinea, Mali, and Burkina Faso have aligned with the Niger military junta, cautioning against any military intervention.