By Nkechi Eze
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has officially clarified the circumstances surrounding the recent border incident between Nigerian local vigilante members and Nigerien troops at Mazanya community in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State, assuring the public that the situation has been fully resolved and that stronger cross-border security coordination measures have now been activated.
In an official statement signed by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, the DHQ explained that the incident occurred on 29 November 2025 at about 1500 hours when a convoy of four gun trucks and one Toyota Jeep transporting Nigerien military officers and soldiers crossed into Mazanya to fetch water, an activity described as a long-standing routine by troops from the Republic of Niger.
Major General Onoja noted that while the Nigerien troops had historically accessed the community for water without incident, the unusually large size of the convoy on this occasion raised alarm among local vigilante elements. Mistaking the movement for a potential hostile advance, the vigilantes opened fire on the Nigerien troops, leading to a brief confrontation triggered solely by misunderstanding.
He disclosed that Nigerian security officials immediately engaged in dialogue with the Nigerien commander on the ground, after which the troops proceeded with their water-fetching mission and subsequently returned to Niger without further disturbance. During the engagement, the Nigerien commander stressed the need for prior notification and liaison before undertaking similar cross-border missions in the future, especially when large troop formations or senior officers are involved. He acknowledged the concerns raised and agreed to strengthen communication channels going forward.
In response to the incident and in line with Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful and cooperative relations with neighbouring countries, the DHQ directed the convening of a Joint Border Security Meeting on the morning of 1 December 2025. The meeting, according to the statement, was aimed at consolidating liaison arrangements between both nations’ security forces and ensuring that preventive mechanisms are in place to avert a repeat occurrence.
Reaffirming the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s dedication to promoting mutual respect, regional stability, and seamless operational coordination with the Republic of Niger, the DHQ highlighted the long-standing cultural, economic, and security ties binding the two countries. It emphasized that Nigeria and Niger continue to work closely on shared challenges including terrorism, smuggling, illegal migration, and other transborder threats.
The DHQ further assured the public that lessons from the incident have been taken seriously and that concrete steps are already in motion to prevent similar misunderstandings. Residents of Mazanya, Jibia LGA, and other border communities were urged to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities, as both Nigerian and Nigerien authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding civilians along the border.
