Cite this article as: Bello, M., Saleh M., Garba A.D., & Clement, M. (2026). The Contributions of the new Media in influencing Diplomatic Relations and Public Opinions between Nigeria and the Republic of Niger Prior to the Sahel Alliance. Zamfara International Journal of Humanities, 4(2), 146-153. www.doi.org/10.36349/zamijoh.2026.v04i02.014
By
Mas’ud Bello, Ph.D 1
Ms. Maryam Saleh2
Ahmed D. Garba3
Clement, M.4
1Department of History & International
Studies, Federal University Gusau, Zamfara State
2Huda University Library, Zamfara State
2School of General Studies, Department of
Liberal Studies, Federal Polytechnic Kaura Namoda
4FCT, Nigeria
Abstract: New Media refers to a class of media that are digital in
orientation and covers a significant number of diverse restricted and
unrestricted audience in a short period of time. The New Media has altered
patterns of diplomatic engagements, socialisation, teaching, learning,
communication, economic transactions, etc. This media technology has
revolutionized the global human society in an unprecedented manner and scale.
Nigeria and Niger Republic diplomatic connections have been an age long ties that
has evolved since the pre-colonial period to present. Digital diplomacy is
equipped with a range of new tools to observe, gather, analyse, report and act
with the goal of promoting a country’s interests particularly diplomatic image.
In view of the strategic relevance of the new media in enhancing diplomatic
engagements, this paper attempts to unveil the historical evolution of the new
Media, its effectiveness in promoting Nigeria Niger Republic diplomatic ties,
its influences on public opinion and the challenges associated with the use of
the new media. The paper adopted a mixed methodology approach, use of
qualitative data, and the study of existing literature on media and diplomacy
in order to arrive at its major findings. The Article established that on a
very significant scale the new media had propelled and influenced diplomatic
engagements and public opinions in both Nigeria and the Republic of Niger,
particularly before the Sahel alliance. It also unveiled some challenges
associated with the effective use of the new media.
Keywords:
New Media, Diplomatic Relations, Public Opinions, Nigeria, Republic of Niger,
Sahel Alliance
Introduction
In recent years, new media has emerged as a powerful tool for
enhancing diplomatic engagements, digitalizing communication, shaping public
perception and opinion. This is particularly evident in the context of Nigeria
and Niger Republic formal and informal community relations. The duo are
neighboring countries in West Africa that share deep historical, cultural, and
economic ties (Andruseac, and Hertug, 2015). A significant number of famous
artist and traditional singers have demonstrated that Nigeria and Niger
republic are identical twins with unique features divided by colonialism and
despite the Francophone and Anglophone divides the bond exist and it is still
very strong. The two geographical climes appear to have natural connections in
terms of cultural orientations.
Historical sources confirmed that the Internet technology started
in the early 1970‟s as a result of scientific researches and technological
breakthroughs to connect the United States Defense Department network called
ARPANET and varying numbers of other radio and satellite networks for smooth
and effective radio communications. This innovation was programmed to initiate
a communication system which would allow networked computers to communicate across multiple-connected networks.
In the same vein, the initiative and idea of the new media evolved
to clearly demonstrate a distinction from the traditional print and electronic
newspapers, magazines, books, radio, television films. It integrates the
digital, computerized or networked information and communication technologies
in the modern age of digital technology. The new platforms are user friendly,
flexible, it enable users to generate and exchange content In the same vein,
the content can be made available on request using different electronic
communication devises. This digital innovation medium has brought significant
changes in human communication in different dimensions. In contemporary diplomacy
for instance, the new media plays an increasingly critical role and often
determines the currency and the success of a country's diplomatic capability,
especially in public diplomacy (Kluver, 2002).
Background to understanding Nigeria - Niger
Republics Diplomatic History
Nigeria and Niger are located in the Sahelian West African Sub
region. Both countries share a long boundary (about 1600km) that is
strategically important to the socio-economic and political life of the two
countries. During the pre- colonial period, there was no formal border between
both countries. Adeola, and Oluyemi, (2012) observed that the people of both
countries around the border areas have been living and interacting with one
other for hundreds of years. The southern parts of Niger Republic were formerly
under the Sokoto Caliphate prior to colonial boundary adjustments, namely;
Dosso, Birnin Konni, Say, Zabarma region, Maradi, Damgaran, Gulma, Air,
Liptako, etc. Nigeria and Niger have had strong historical, social and economic
ties. The towns and cities between Northern Nigeria and Southern Niger share
common language and customs. Hausa language has been the prevalent language
spoken in the area and it is averagely understood by the majority (Umate and
Idris 2021).Trade between Niger and Nigeria is favoured by Niger’s geographical
realities of the two countries; Niger, being a land-locked country is dependent
on neighbouring countries like Nigeria (Adeola, and Oluyemi,). The
exports of industrial raw materials during the colonial period had to pass
through Nigerian sea ports from the Republic of Niger for delivery to Europe
and to other parts of the world (Bello 2020).
The extensive border areas traverses’ regions inhabited
predominantly by the Hausa and Gobirawa people in Nigeria and Zabarma, Tuaregs,
Kelgras, Manga, Dazaga Toubou, Hausas, Wodabe, etc. on the side of Niger
Republic fostering deep cultural and historical ties between the two nations.
This shared heritage has significantly influenced their diplomatic relations
since the attainment of political independence by both countries in 1960.
Despite the artificial boundaries imposed during the colonial era, the Hausa
language and cultural practices have remained integral to the communities on
bothsides, promoting informal trade and social interactions (Miles, 2005).
Nigeria as a strong pillar in the West African sub-region continues to be the
centre point for social economic and political cooperation. These cooperation
between Nigeria and Niger became more integrated and deepened after
independence, and this led to the creation of the Nigeria-Niger Joint
Commission for Cooperation (NNJCC) in 1971 (Orji,2018), which not only foster
solid bond, but also serve as an innovative strategy to achieve sustainable
development through border community development and regional integration.
The
Status of the New Media in Nigeria and the Republic of Niger
The advent of the new media has transformed communication and
diplomacy across the universe, it has enhanced foreign policy objectives
and its impact has transcend beyond continental geographical boundaries (Rachmawati,
2024).This innovation has significantly promoted and influenced interactions
between nations. In Nigeria and the Niger Republic, the rapid emergence and
expansion of new media platforms have reshaped diplomatic engagements,
fostering new avenues for dialogue, collaboration, and crisis management.
Politically, Nigeria and Niger have maintained a policy of non-interference in
each other's internal affairs, but what was evident has been cooperation’s on
security, economic and socio cultural relations. During the Nigerian Civil War
(1967-1970), Niger's Republic President Mr. Hamani Diori played a mediatory
role, exemplifying the cooperative spirit between the two nations (Dori, 2024).
Economically, the relationship has been mutually beneficial to the
duo. Nigerien livestock sector essentially relied on Nigerian markets, and
Nigerian goods, including petroleum products and machinery, textiles, building
material, manufactured goods, plastics, building materials, are on a very large
scale exported to Niger. In 2021, Nigerian exports to Niger were valued at
approximately $539 million, while imports stood at around $13 million,
highlighting Nigeria's trade surplus. Additionally, infrastructure projects
like the Katsina-Maradi railway underscore efforts to enhance connectivity and
trade between the two countries (ADBG 2024).
Bilateral cooperation has been institutionalized through the
Nigeria-Niger Joint Commission for Cooperation (NNJC), established in March
1971 with its Permanent Secretariat in Niamey (Orji 2018). This commission
facilitates collaboration in various sectors, including water resource
management, desertification control, management of forest resources and
conservation efforts. Both nations are also active members of regional
organizations such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
and the African Union, further solidifying their commitment to regional
integration and development before the recent Sahel Alliance (IFC
and DIF 2023).Strategic and Security collaboration has been a priority of their
diplomatic relations, particularly in combating transnational threats like
terrorism and cross-border crimes. Niger has been a key ally for Nigeria in
addressing challenges posed by groups such as Boko Haram, ISIS, ISWAP, etc.
However, political developments, such as the 2023 coup in Niger, have
introduced complexities, potentially impacting joint security efforts and
necessitating diplomatic recalibrations to maintain regional stability,
(Business Day, 2023).
The diplomatic relationship has experienced fluctuations,
influenced by leadership changes and domestic policies. For example, during
President Muhammadu Buhari's military regime (1983-1985), Nigeria's foreign
policy towards Niger was characterized by strict border closures and a
reactionary stance. In contrast, his civilian administration since 2015 has
adopted a more liberal, dynamic and amicable approach, emphasizing development
assistance and mutual cooperation. This shift underscores the impact of domestic
economic circumstances, regime type, and security considerations on bilateral
relations (Akinrinade, et al 2023).
The
Utilisation of the New Media in Nigeria and Niger Republic
The evolution of new media in Nigeria and the Niger Republic has
significantly transformed communication landscapes in these nations. The
evolution of new media in both countries underscores the profound impact of
digital platforms on communication, commerce, and governance (Kperogi, 2011).
In Nigeria, the journey began with the introduction of the internet in the late
1990s, which laid the foundation for digital communication. By 2008, Nigeria's
internet population had reached approximately 24 million users, positioning it
as Africa's largest internet market at the time (Daramola, 2017). In the early
2000s, Nigeria's telecommunications landscape underwent significant
liberalization, leading to the entry of providers like MTN, Glo, and Airtel,
this development made mobile internet increasingly accessible to the populace,
setting the stage for new media adoption (Daramola, 2017).
Between 2004 and 2006, platforms such as Hi5 and My space gained
wider aceptance among Nigerians, especially among the youth.These platforms
introduced features like online profiles and friend networks, allowing users to
connect and share content despite the challenges posed by relatively slow and
expensive internet connectivity at the time, particularly in remote and rural
areas with absence or slow networks (AIRA 2021).The proliferation of new media
platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube in the late 2000s and early
2010s marked a significant shift in Nigeria's digital engagements. These
platforms became instrumental in various facets of Nigerian society, including
politics, entertainment, and commerce. For instance, during the 2011 general
elections, the new media played a central strategic role in political campaigns
and voter education, marking the first extensive official utilization of these
platforms in Nigeria's political history (Odeyemi, and Harrison, 2021).
On the other hand, in the Niger Republic, the adoption of the new
media followed a similar trajectory, though at a different pace. The expansion
of mobile telephone in the early 2000s facilitated greater internet access,
leading to the gradual adoption of new media platforms (Media Landscapes 2025).
As of 2019, there were approximately 480,000 active new media users in the
Republic of Niger, accounting for about 2.1% of the population of the country.
The proliferation of smartphones and the ease of sharing multimedia contents
contributed to the increasing popularity of social networks, making them one of
the main means of communication and information dissemination in the country
(Media Landscapes, 2025). The Niger Republic's journey into the digital media
space started in the early 2000s with the growth of online media outlets such
as IciNiger, Actuniger, Nigerinter, and Niger Dépêches which provided citizens
with access to news and information, both locally and internationally (Mass
Media in Niger 2025).
In recent years, the new media has played a significant role in
shaping public opinion and political discourse and businesses in Niger
Republic. Platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, which have been instrumental in
mobilizing support for various political movements, business activities and
have also served as channels for the spread of information and, at times,
misinformation (Kperogi, 2011). However, the growth of new media in both
countries has not been without challenges. Issues such as misinformation, cybercrime,
and the digital divides have emerged as significant concerns. In Nigeria,
debates over the regulation of the new media contents have intensified,
particularly regarding its implications for freedom of expression and national
security (Ojo, 2021).
The New
Media in Diplomatic Platforms
The new media has become an indispensable tool in modern
diplomacy, reshaping how nations interact, communicate, and engage with global
audiences on varying number of issues bordering on global interest and
concerns. Diplomatic platforms now utilize the new media to conduct public
diplomacy, manage crises, and influence international relations (World Affairs
Insider, 2024). The new media allows diplomatic missions to communicate
directly with the public, clarify misinformation, and assert their commitment to
citizen safety. Active participation in discussions and issues on the media
further enhance an embassy’s credibility and establish trust among its
nationals (World Affairs Insider, 2024). In the event of conflict or crisis,
the effective and objective use of the new media has helped in keeping citizens
well informed outside their countries of origin According to Twiplomacy (which
provides studies on the use of digital tools by governments and international
organisations), in 2018, over 97% of all 193 UN member states had an official
presence on Twitter (Diplo Foundation, “Internet and new media 2021). The most
popular platform globally for world leaders is Twitter, followed by Facebook,
and then Instagram. The United States president Donald Trump's personal Twitter
account was the most followed account with 81.8 million followers, followed by
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pope Francis, (Diplo Foundation,
“Internet and new media 2021),
However, in 2019, Twiplomacy organized a twitter poll where they
asked world leaders, governments, and foreign ministries on Twitter how they
used the platform and what were the benefits of Twitter for digital diplomacy.
Most foreign ministries replied that Twitter is a tool for furthering
diplomatic and foreign policy goals, and communicating diplomatic and consular
activity. One user wrote that the great benefit of Twitter for diplomacy is
that content travels far and fast, directly engaging and impacting on citizens
of significant number of countries (Diplo Foundation, “Internet and new media 2021).
The availability of the internet in conference rooms has made remote
participation a reality for more inclusive and open international negotiations
in multilateral Diplomacy (World Affairs Insider, 2024). In Nigeria and Niger
Republic, during the COVID-19 pandemic, mass media played pivotal role in
disseminating information, shaping public perception, and influencing health
behaviours.
Nigerian statesmen have utilized the media to convey international
messages, thereby shaping the nation's foreign policy narrative. The recent
political upheaval, marked by a coup, saw the media platforms like X (formerly
Twitter) and WhatsApp playing pivotal roles in disseminating information and
rallying public sentiment. Influencers utilized these platforms to express
support for the coup leaders, reflecting a complex interplay between digital
media and state affairs (Mirjam,"Influencers, X and WhatsApp, 2023).
The New
Media in Diplomacy: Nigeria and Niger Republic
The diplomatic ties between the Republic of Niger and the Federal
Republic of Nigeria have been significantly enhanced through strategic use of
the new media platforms. Both nations and their citizens have leveraged on
these digital tools to foster mutual understanding, address shared challenges,
and promote collaborative initiatives (Abdulbasit, 2024). In the realm of
counterterrorism, both nations have harnessed new media platforms to
disseminate information, coordinate efforts, and bolster public awareness. The
pervasive reach of these platforms has facilitated real-time communication and
collaboration, enhancing the effectiveness of joint operations against
terrorist activities by exchanging strategic intelligent information for
security operations (Hocking, and Melissen, 2015).
Another case study in this direction, during the COVID-19
pandemic, the new media emerged as an essential medium for public diplomacy and
health communication. In Nigeria, for instance, platforms were utilized to
disseminate timely information, counter misinformation, and engage with the
public on health guidelines. This approach underscored the role of digital
tools in shaping public perception and compliance during health emergencies. A
study examining Nigeria's use of the new media during the pandemic highlighted
its impact on public diplomacy and foreign policy direction (Nwafor, et
al.2019).
Emerging Challenges in the use of the Media for
Diplomatic Engagements
The new media has emerged as a powerful tool in the realm of
diplomatic relations, offering rapid communication, real-time public
engagement, and the potential to shape global perceptions. However, its use in
diplomatic efforts between Nigeria and the Niger Republic presents unique
challenges and opportunities. The challenges cut across language barriers,
digital divides, misinformation, cultural differences, cyber security threats,
digital literacy gaps, and trust deficits collectively create a complex environment
for using new media as a diplomatic tool between Nigeria and the Niger Republic
(Anthony, et al 2020).
The obstacles in using the new media for diplomatic purposes
between Nigeria and the Niger Republic are the language barrier. Nigeria’s
official language is English, but it is home to a wide array of indigenous
languages such as Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa, whereas the Niger Republic
predominantly uses French alongside various local dialects. This discrepancy
often results in miscommunications and misinterpretations of diplomatic
messages. For instance, a tweet intended as a conciliatory gesture might be misread
by speakers unfamiliar with the nuance of the language used (Adeyemi, 2020).
Similarly, another challenge is the digital divide, where
differences in technological infrastructure and access hinder smooth uniform
communication. While urban centers in Nigeria might enjoy high-speed internet
and widespread smartphone usage, rural areas in both countries often struggle
with connectivity issues. This disparity not only limits the reach of official
diplomatic communications but also impedes public engagement during crises or
diplomatic exchanges also; unequal access to digital technologies undermines
the effectiveness of digital diplomacy in the regions (Johnson and Sadiq,
2018).
In the same vein, the proliferation of misinformation and fake
news on the new media platforms poses a significant obstacle as well. Both
nations have experienced incidents where unverified information sparked
unwarranted diplomatic tensions (Chukwu, 2019).The cyber security risks are an
ever-present concern that undermines trust in online diplomatic interactions.
Cyber-attacks, hacking attempts, and data breaches disrupt communications and
cast doubt on the authenticity of diplomatic messages (Bello, 2019).
Lack of digital literacy among both officials and the general
public can impede effective online diplomacy. In many instances, diplomats may
not be fully trained to leverage the rapid and informal nature of the new
media, while citizens might not have the skills to critically assess online
content. This gap often results in misinterpretations and miscommunications
that exacerbate diplomatic challenges. Ibrahim’s study on digital literacy
reveals that improving technological proficiency is vital to fostering more
robust digital diplomatic channels (Musa, 2018).
Conclusion
and the Future of the New Media in Diplomatic Relations
The new media occupies a significant status in enhancing
diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the Niger Republic. It provides a
platform for direct communication, public diplomacy, and crisis management. New
media has also served as a tool for cultural exchange, fostering mutual
understanding and trust. Furthermore, platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and
Instagram offer opportunities for governments to shape public narratives,
counter misinformation, and promote regional stability.
Additionally, the new media have facilitated economic cooperation
by promoting trade and investment opportunities. It has also enhanced security
collaboration by enabling rapid information sharing during crises and joint
counter-terrorism efforts. To fully leverage on these benefits, it is crucial
for both countries to invest in digital literacy, enhance cyber security, and
address language barriers through multilingual content strategies. Effective
digital diplomacy requires comprehensive strategies that consider cultural
sensitivities, technological disparities, and the evolving dynamics of global
communication.
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