Vatican’s Pope Francis called on Sunday for a diplomatic solution to the political crisis facing Niger, stemming from a coup that threatens stability in the entire region.
Speaking during the Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square, the Pope said, “I am deeply concerned about the situation in Niger and join the bishops in their call for peace and stability in this country, and in the Sahel region.”
The 86-year-old Pontiff emphasized that he prays that the “efforts of the international community will quickly yield a political solution for the benefit of all.”
Church leaders in West Africa have also advocated for a peaceful resolution to the situation in Niger, expressing their opposition to any military intervention. Similarly, leaders of religious groups operating in West Africa echoed the sentiments of the Catholic bishops in the region who are against any military action in Niger, indicating that it would only exacerbate the situation.
It’s worth noting that on July 26, military officials ousted the elected President of Niger, Mohamed Bazoum, making Niger the fourth country in West Africa to witness a coup since 2020.
