The Defence Headquarters has denied reports stating that the French military was planning to establish a base in Nigeria.

In a statement by the Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba on Monday said the clarification was necessitated due to reports doing the rounds, that French soldiers had arrived in the country.

“The attention of Defence Headquarters has been drawn to online reports alleging the arrival of the first contingent of French soldiers in Maiduguri towards establishing a French Military base in North East Nigeria.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria hereby state unequivocally that this information is fake, totally false and mischievous. It would be recalled that Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa CFR, recently addressed this matter in different media forums. In which he debunked the news and such speculations.”

Buba urged the general public to disregard the news and speculations still making rounds in some quarters.

“It is clear that these are the antics of mischief makers,” he added, saying that nevertheless, the military will continue to carry out its constitutional responsibilities, most professionally and ensure the territorial integrity of Nigeria.