The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has clarified an incident in Mazanya Village, Jibia LGA, Katsina State, where local vigilantes fired at Nigerien troops on November 29.
According to Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, the troops were on a routine mission to fetch water, a practice carried out regularly by Nigerien forces.
“The convoy, including four gun trucks and a Toyota Jeep, appeared unusually large to local vigilantes, who misinterpreted it as a hostile advance and opened fire,” Onoja explained.
He said the misunderstanding was swiftly resolved through dialogue between Nigerian security authorities and the Nigerien commander. The Nigerien troops were able to fetch water and returned safely without further incident.
The Defence HQ convened a Joint Border Security Meeting on December 1 to prevent future misunderstandings. Measures include enhanced liaison structures, improved communication channels, and prior notification for large troop movements.
Onoja reassured border communities that both Nigeria and Niger remain committed to peaceful cooperation, stressing shared challenges like terrorism, smuggling, illegal migration, and other transborder crimes.
Residents were urged to remain calm yet vigilant, with security agencies promising continuous efforts to safeguard civilians and maintain bilateral ties with Niger.