Niger’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani, has alleged that France is orchestrating a plot to establish a terrorist base in Nigeria through the Wagner Group, a controversial private military company.

In a televised interview on Wednesday, Tiani claimed that his government had shared intelligence with Nigerian authorities about France’s alleged plan to use Wagner operatives to destabilize the region.

He accused Nigeria of disregarding these warnings and turning a blind eye to the mercenary group’s activities.

“Our intelligence has long indicated France’s intention to utilize Wagner as a tool for spreading terrorism in Nigeria,” Tiani stated.

“We provided detailed recommendations to the Nigerian government, but they have chosen to ignore them,” he added.

The remarks come amid rising tensions between Niger and France following the recent military takeover in Niger, which ousted the democratically elected government.

France, a former colonial power in the region, has repeatedly denied any involvement in destabilizing activities, while relations between the two nations remain strained.

Tiani’s allegations have sparked further debate about foreign influence and security in West Africa.

The Wagner Group already operates in several African nations, including Mali and the Central African Republic.

The Nigerian government has yet to respond to Tiani’s claims.