Benin-Niger spat: China may try to mediate to access crude oil from ‘its’ pipelineTensions between Benin and Niger have escalated since the military coup in the latter in July 2023, with the borders between both countries remaining closed and with Benin preventing Niger from using its port to export its crude oil, mostly bound for China. Relations between the two nations soured after the Nigerian military overthrew the country’s democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum last year. In response, Benin has prevented Niger from using its port to export its first crude oil, with President Patrice Talon accusing Niger of treating its neighbor like an “enemy”. “The Nigerian government is still afraid that ECOWAS or France could try to reinstall the ousted president through military intervention.” Laessing also adds that “China will probably try to mediate. After all, China built the oil pipeline.

Source: The North Africa Journal May 16, 2024 18:19 UTC