By Joy Yesufu
The Chadian government has announced the immediate closure of its border with Nigeria amid heightened regional security concerns and speculation about alleged movements of United States forces in parts of West Africa.
Military sources in N’Djamena confirmed on Monday that President Mahamat Idriss Déby ordered the shutdown following intelligence reports suggesting that terrorist elements from northern Nigeria were planning to cross into Chadian territory.
According to counterterrorism analyst Zagazola Makama, Chadian troops and armoured vehicles have been deployed along key entry routes from Nigeria, with all units now placed on high alert.
President Déby reportedly warned that “no armed group or foreign force will be allowed to enter Chadian soil under any disguise.”
The border closure comes amid rising tension across the Sahel and parts of West Africa, following widespread speculation about possible US military manoeuvres in the region.
Security analysts say the decision reflects Chad’s longstanding concern over transnational terrorism and its determination to prevent infiltration by armed militants operating across porous borders.
Chad, which shares borders with Nigeria, Niger, and Cameroon, has been a key partner in regional counterterrorism efforts against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
While officials did not specify the duration of the border closure, military checkpoints have reportedly been reinforced, and movements across the frontier are now under strict surveillance.
