The US and UN support Nigeria’s constitutional restoration efforts in Niger, highlighting Nigeria’s progress.
US Vice President Harris confirmed a conversation with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, highlighting the strong ties between the two nations and their shared work on global and regional issues. The conversation focused on defending democracy in West Africa and the Sahel, promoting digital inclusion, and promoting economic growth.
Nigerian Presidency leaders commended Tinubu for spearheading peace efforts, while soldiers from the Presidential Guard deposed President Mohamed Bazoum on Wednesday.
President Tinubu rejected the threat to democracy in Niger and sent a delegation to restore constitutional order. US Vice President Harris praised the Federal Government’s reform initiatives and urged Nigeria to continue. The US also pledged support for democracy in Africa, including the West African sub-region, and urged Africa to embrace energy transitions.
President Tinubu thanked Harris for her phone call and encouragement on the economy but noted the dampening developments in the Niger Republic. He emphasised the need for ECOWAS to restore democracy in Niger and rely on the US’s support.
In Nigeria, he urged the US to lead in removing fuel subsidies and foreign direct investment to alleviate the effects of subsidy removal. He also emphasised the importance of focusing on alternate energy and urged developed nations to understand the situation in developing countries, including Africa.
The two leaders also discussed strengthening relations and sharing work on global and regional issues. They also discussed defending democracy in West Africa and The Sahel and digital inclusion. President Tinubu expressed hope that the situation in Niger could be reversed, but ECOWAS would require the UN’s support for restoring democracy and building institutions.
