By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has clarified the circumstances surrounding last Friday’s border incident between local vigilantes in Mazanya community, Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State, and troops from the Republic of Niger.
Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja in a statement on Monday, said the misunderstanding occurred on November 29, 2025, around 3pm, when a convoy of Nigerien soldiers crossed into Mazanya to fetch water, a practice he described as routine among troops operating along the border.
He said the convoy, which comprised four gun trucks and a Toyota Jeep, appeared unusually large, a development that raised suspicion among local vigilante members who mistook the movement for a hostile advance.
“The concern triggered a reaction from the vigilantes, who opened fire on the Nigerien troops,” the statement said.
Gen. Onoja explained that Nigerian security officials immediately engaged the Nigerien commander to de-escalate the situation.
After the intervention, the troops were allowed to fetch water and return to their side of the border without further incident.
He said the Nigerien commander admitted the need for better communication before future water-fetching missions, especially those involving senior officers or large formations, and agreed to improve liaison going forward.
To prevent similar occurrences, the DHQ said it convened a Joint Border Security Meeting with Nigerien authorities on Monday aimed at strengthening cooperation and refining communication channels between the two countries.
The DHQ reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and longstanding security ties with Niger, noting that both countries continue to work together against terrorism, smuggling, illegal migration and other cross-border threats.
It urged residents of Mazanya and other border communities to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities, assuring that the situation is fully under control.
“Lessons have been taken, and concrete measures are already underway to ensure such misunderstandings do not recur,” the statement added.
