Muhammadu Sanusi II, the 14th Emir of Kano, has expressed his strong commitment to facilitating peace restoration efforts in Niger Republic.
Sanusi delivered this message on Wednesday, shortly after his visit to Niamey, the capital of Niger, where he met with Abdourahamane Tiani, the leader of the recent coup. He emphasized that while government officials were aware of his visit to the coup leaders, the purpose of his mission was purely personal.
In a conversation with President Bola Tinubu, Sanusi conveyed the outcome of the meeting and stressed the importance of handling the situation with diplomacy. He highlighted that ongoing interventions are being undertaken, and he is dedicated to bridging the gap between the involved parties to enhance mutual understanding.
Sanusi stressed the significance of public diplomacy in this matter, emphasizing that it’s a responsibility shared by all individuals from both Nigeria and Niger to collaboratively seek a solution that benefits Africa, Niger, Nigeria, and humanity at large.
Clarifying his role, Sanusi clarified that his visit was not orchestrated by the government but rather driven by his personal initiative and connections. He affirmed his unwavering commitment to this cause, considering it his duty as a leader.
Sanusi’s visit coincided with the rejection by Niger’s military authorities of a peace mission proposed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the African Union (AU), and the United Nations (UN). The diplomatic efforts were halted following a communication from Niger’s military authorities, citing their unavailability to receive the delegation.
In a related development, Victoria Nuland, the acting deputy secretary of state of the United States, faced a similar denial of permission to meet with Tiani and ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. Instead, she engaged in a two-hour discussion with other army officers.
