The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has provided a detailed explanation of the recent border incident in Mazanya community, Jibia Local Government Area, Katsina State, involving local vigilante members and Nigerien troops.
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/SPA-Ajibade.1.png")
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/idrinstitute.png")
The encounter occurred on 29 November 2025 at about 3:00 pm, when vigilantes reportedly misinterpreted the presence of Nigerian soldiers accompanying Nigerien military officers.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said the clarification, issued Monday night, was necessary to dispel misinformation, reassure the public, and reinforce Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful coexistence with neighbouring countries.
According to the DHQ, “a convoy of four gun trucks and a Toyota Jeep transporting Nigerien military officers had crossed into Mazanya to fetch water, a long-standing routine for the troops. However, the unusually large convoy size reportedly alarmed local vigilante members, who misinterpreted the movement as a potential threat and opened fire.”
General Onoja said Nigerian security authorities quickly intervened, engaging the Nigerien commander in dialogue. “The situation was resolved without escalation, and the Nigerien troops were allowed to complete their water-fetching mission before returning to their territory. The Nigerien commander stressed the need for prior communication before similar operations in the future, particularly when large formations or senior officers are involved,” he added.
In response, the DHQ convened a Joint Border Security Meeting on 1 December 2025 to strengthen liaison arrangements and prevent future misunderstandings. The meeting reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to cooperation on shared security challenges, including terrorism, smuggling, illegal migration, and other transborder crimes.
The Defence Headquarters assured the public that the incident has been fully addressed and that new communication protocols are being implemented to prevent recurrence. Residents of Mazanya and other border communities were urged to remain calm and continue their daily activities without fear.
General Onoja reiterated Nigeria’s strong strategic and cultural ties with the Republic of Niger, emphasizing that both nations remain united in maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of civilians along their shared border.
A timely new publication, Casebook on Privacy & Data Protection in Nigeria, co-authored by Olumide Babalola and Uchenna Nnawuchi, 📘Casebook on Privacy & Data Protection in Nigeria is now available on Amazon: https://a.co/d/8TmFZrd
______________________________________________________________________
“Artificial Intelligence for Lawyers: A Comprehensive Guide”, authored by Ben Ijeoma Adigwe Esq., ACiarb (UK), LL.M, Dip. in Artificial Intelligence, Director at the Delta State Ministry of Justice, Asaba, Nigeria.
How to Order:
📞 Call, Text, or WhatsApp: 08034917063 | 07055285878
📧 Email: benadigwe1@gmail.com
🌎 Website: www.benadigwe.com
Ebook Version: Access it directly online at https://selar.com/prv626
________________________________________________________________________
[A MUST HAVE] Evidence Act Demystified With Recent And Contemporary Cases And Materials
