Zaburumas, Hausas, Kanuris, Fulanis in Niger are our People, 53% of Nigerieans are Hausas — Professor Usman Yusuf

In a recent interview with THE SUN, Professor Usman Yusuf, former executive secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme, expressed reservations about the proposed military intervention in neighboring Niger Republic by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This intervention comes in response to the military takeover of the government in Niger.

Led by Nigerian President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, ECOWAS has demanded that the junta in Niger reinstates President Mohamed Bazoum, warning of potential conflict if their demands are not met. To pressure the junta into negotiations, the regional body has imposed various sanctions on the country.

Yusuf, however, questioned the effectiveness of these measures, pointing to the deep-rooted ties between Nigeria and Niger. He highlighted the sentiments of Northern elders who oppose military action due to their intimate understanding of the people in Niger. “They are our people: Zaburumas, Hausas, Kanuris, Fulanis. Notably, 53 percent of Nigeriens are Hausas,” Yusuf emphasized. He further pointed out the shared borders, with seven Northern states bordering Niger and five of the seven northwestern states sharing proximity.

Usman Yusuf (photo credit: THE SUN)

“We share languages, intermarry, and practice the same religions. Are we suddenly to engage in hostilities against them?” questioned Yusuf. He went on to underscore Niger’s historical significance as one of Nigeria’s most steadfast allies on the continent. The division along their border, Yusuf believes, is an artificial construct that belies the depth of their interconnected heritage.

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