DHQ clarifies Jibia border incident, steps up Nigeria–Niger security coordination
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has clarified a recent border incident in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State, involving local vigilantes and Nigerien troops, assuring the public that the matter has been resolved and preventive measures are in place.
Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, explained in a statement that the incident occurred on Nov. 29 when a convoy of Nigerien soldiers entered Mazanya Village to fetch water—a routine practice for troops in the area.
The convoy, consisting of four gun trucks and a Toyota Jeep carrying officers and soldiers, appeared unusually large to local vigilantes, who mistakenly perceived it as a hostile maneuver and fired warning shots.
“The situation was swiftly contained after dialogue between Nigerian security authorities and the Nigerien commander,” Onoja said, noting that the Nigerien soldiers successfully collected water and returned to their side of the border without further conflict.
The Nigerien commander emphasised the need for prior liaison before future cross-border activities involving senior officers or larger troop formations, promising improved communication moving forward.
In response, the Nigerian Armed Forces convened a Joint Border Security Meeting on Dec. 1 to reinforce liaison structures, enhance communication channels, and prevent similar misunderstandings.
Onoja stressed that Nigeria maintains strong bilateral relations with the Republic of Niger, highlighting shared cultural, economic, and security interests, including the fight against terrorism, smuggling, illegal migration, and other transborder crimes.
Residents of Mazanya and surrounding border communities were reassured that both Nigerian and Nigerien authorities are committed to civilian safety, and urged to remain calm while continuing daily activities.
The DHQ underlined that lessons from the incident are being taken seriously, with concrete measures underway to prevent a recurrence.
