The ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defense staff brief the press on plans to deploy its standby force to the Republic of Niger, in Accra, Ghana, August 18, 2023. (Photo: REUTERS/Francis Kokoroko)

The West African group is pursuing diplomatic ways to reverse the July 26 coup.

The coup leaders' acceptance of the mission could signal a new willingness to negotiate after the bloc on Friday doubled-down on its threat to use force as a last resort to restore democracy. An undisclosed "D-Day" had been agreed for possible military intervention.

In a televised address to the nation on Saturday, Tiani said that neither coup leaders nor the Nigerien people want war and remain open to dialogue, but warned that Niger is ready to defend itself if needed.

Tiani also said that the junta is pursuing its own agenda and would launch a national dialogue to consult on a transition back to democracy, which "should last no longer than three years.”