The Defence Headquarters has clarified the circumstances surrounding a border incident between local vigilantes and Nigerien troops in Mazanya community, Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State, saying the confrontation resulted from a misunderstanding and has since been resolved.
According to the DHQ, the incident occurred on 29 November 2025 when a convoy of four-gun trucks and a Toyota Jeep carrying Nigerien soldiers entered the village to fetch water an activity routinely carried out by troops from Niger.
However, the unusually large convoy raised suspicion among local vigilante members, who mistakenly perceived the movement as hostile and opened fire.
The DHQ said Nigerian security officials immediately engaged the Nigerien commander, after which the troops completed their water-fetching mission and returned across the border without further confrontation.
The Nigerien commander reportedly stressed the need for better liaison and advance communication, especially when crossing with large formations or senior officers.
To prevent a repeat, the Defence Headquarters convened a Joint Border Security Meeting with Nigerien counterparts on 1 December 2025 to strengthen coordination and communication protocols.
Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, said Nigeria remains committed to peaceful and constructive relations with Niger.
“Nigeria and Niger share long-standing cultural, economic and security ties. Both nations continue to collaborate closely against terrorism, smuggling and other transborder threats,” he said.
The clarification comes amid rising concerns over cross-border tensions in the northwest. The DHQ assured residents that the situation is under control and that measures are being implemented to prevent future misunderstandings.
“Lessons from the incident are being taken seriously,” Onoja added, urging Mazanya and other border communities to remain calm but vigilant.
