Niger: Going to War Doesn't Serve Nigeria's Interest -Mohammed Rabiu Bako Insists

Following the rising issues in Sub-saharan Africa with regards Niger; a Statesman and patriarch, Mohammed Rabiu Bako has stated that going to war is never in the interest of Nigeria and Nigerians. 

In a statement signed by Mr. Rabiu Bako, he stated; "The tensions growing up with regards the aftermath of the Coup in Niger cannot be overstated. So many opinions have been flying round different mediums with possible Solutions regarding the economic and political implications of going to war in Niger. It is on this that I commend President Bola Tinubu for starting strong, particularly in swift decision making, but also, to state categorically clear why going to war in Niger is bad for the Nigerian state and particularly the Northern Nigerian states at this time.

"Firstly, Nigeria and Niger have historically been close allies with diplomatic relations dating back to 1960 when Niger attained to be independence. Going to war could potentially strain diplomatic relations between the two countries, which could have long-term economic and political groups of implications.

"The West African sub-region has experienced a series of conflicts in recent years, whereas Nigeria also had experienced one of the most destructive wars in human history, the Biafran civil war. Former President Yakubu Gowan should be the one able to advise President Tinubu about the consequences of going to war. Therefore, a war between Nigeria and Niger could contribute to further instability in Nigeria. This could further impede efforts to boost integration in the sub-sahara.

"Going to war could also have implications on domestic politics in Nigeria. While war could unify the people and lead to a rally-around-the-flag effect, it could also create fragmentation and dissent within the country. The domestic issues most likely to be faced by the President would be the question of funding the war. One would agree that with the removal of fuel Subsidy, the gains could definitely be used to fund the way. 

Going forward, the economic implications of going to war against Niger are:

1. Disruption of trade routes: Nigeria and Niger have a strong trade relationship, with Nigeria being one of Niger's primary trading partners. Going to war could potentially disrupt these trade routes, leading to a decline in the flow of goods and services between the two countries and ECOWAS allys

2. Humanitarian crisis: The war could lead to a humanitarian crisis with the displacement of people, loss of lives and property, and the disruption of basic services such as healthcare and education.

3. Economic downturn: A war could also lead to an economic downturn, with businesses and investors becoming wary of the country's instability. This could lead to a decline in foreign direct investments, a decrease in productivity, and a rise in inflation rates. 

In conclusion, going to war could have significant political and economic implications for Nigeria. Therefore, diplomacy and peaceful resolution should be sought as the first option in resolving any disputes. President Bola Tinubu should avoid the war because it doesn't serve the interest of Nigeria and Nigerians.

~Mohammed Rabiu Bako