The Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) has denied a report that the Republic of Niger has pulled out of the task force.
The MNJTF was established to create a safe and secure environment in areas affected by the activities of Boko Haram and other terrorist groups.
Nigeria, Chad, Niger, Cameroon and Benin Republic are countries in the task force.
A report had claimed Niger pulled out of the task force following the sanctions imposed on the country by the Economic Community for West African States.
Refuting the report in a statement on Sunday, the MNJTF spokesperson, Lt. Col. Abubakar Abdullahi, said Niger remained an essential member of the Multinational Joint Task Force.
He said, “MNJTF has been drawn to inaccurate media reports by a section of the 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.
“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”.
The MNJTF spokesperson urged 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 emphasise the importance of accurate reporting to maintain public trust and confidence in our collective efforts”, Abdullahi said.
