The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has clarified the circumstances surrounding the border incident involving Nigerian vigilante members and Nigerien troops in Mazanya village, Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State, assured the public that the situation has been resolved and new measures have been adopted to prevent future misunderstandings.
In a statement signed by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, the DHQ confirmed that the incident occurred on 29 November 2025 at about 3:00 p.m., when a convoy of Nigerien soldiers entered the community to fetch water a long-standing routine carried out by troops from the neighbouring country.
According to the DHQ, the unusually large convoy, which consisted of four gun trucks and a Toyota Jeep, sparked concern among local vigilante elements who mistook the movement for a potential hostile advance and opened fire on the Nigerien troops.
The Defence Headquarters said the misunderstanding was promptly addressed through dialogue between Nigerian security authorities and the Nigerien commander present at the scene. The troops eventually fetched the water and returned safely to Niger Republic without further incident.
The Nigerien commander reportedly emphasized the need for prior communication and liaison before any future cross-border visits, especially when involving senior military officials or large troop movements a position Nigeria has agreed to reinforce.
To forestall similar incidents, the DHQ disclosed that a Joint Border Security Meeting between Nigerian and Nigerien security forces was convened on 1 December 2025. The meeting, according to the statement, focused on improving communication channels, strengthening cooperation, and safeguarding residents of border communities.
“The Defence Headquarters reaffirms its unwavering commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and seamless coordination with the Republic of Niger,” the statement said, noting that both nations continue to collaborate on shared security challenges, including terrorism, smuggling, and transborder crimes.
The DHQ urged residents of Mazanya, Jibia LGA, and other border communities to remain calm and continue their daily activities without fear, assuring them that the situation is fully under control.
“Lessons drawn from the incident are being taken seriously, and concrete measures are already underway to ensure such misunderstandings do not recur,” Major General Onoja said.
