The Government of Chad has announced the immediate closure of its border with Nigeria, citing rising security threats and intelligence reports suggesting possible infiltration by armed groups from the Nigerian side.
This was confirmed by the Military sources in N’Djamena which confirmed on Monday that President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno has ordered the closure and deployment of troops along the frontier, following reports that militants were planning to cross into Chadian territory.
Regional security analyst Zagazola Makama said large numbers of Chadian troops, supported by armoured vehicles and aerial surveillance units, have been stationed along key entry routes.
“All units are now on high alert, with armoured vehicles deployed to critical corridors linking Nigeria and Chad,” Makama noted.
President Déby, in a stern warning, said no armed group or foreign force would be permitted to enter Chad “under any pretext.”
National Beam learnt that the border shutdown comes amid heightened tension in the Sahel and West Africa, fuelled by unconfirmed reports of U.S. troop repositioning in the region.
Although Washington has yet to issue an official statement, speculation over American military activities has triggered concern among regional governments, prompting preemptive security actions.
Analysts view Chad’s move as a precautionary step to safeguard its borders and maintain internal stability amid ongoing unrest in the Lake Chad Basin and shifting alliances following military coups in Niger and Burkina Faso.
With the Nigerian border now sealed, all cross-border movements and trade have been temporarily suspended.
Meanwhile, cross-border traders and transport operators have been advised to remain patient pending further directives from the Chadian authorities.
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