Déby Orders Military Lockdown as Tension Rises Across West Africa
By Abdullahi Inuwa
N’DJAMENA — The Government of Chad has announced the immediate closure of its border with Nigeria, citing escalating security concerns and reports of alleged U.S. military manoeuvres in West Africa.
Military sources in N’Djamena confirmed on Monday that President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno ordered a total military lockdown along the Chadian-Nigerian border after intelligence indicated that terrorist elements operating in northern Nigeria were preparing to cross into Chadian territory.
According to top defence officials, the Chadian army has been placed on full alert, with armoured vehicles and combat-ready troops deployed across key frontier corridors linking both countries.
President Déby was quoted as saying that “no armed group or foreign force will be allowed to enter Chadian soil under any disguise,” warning that Chad will not tolerate any breach of its territorial integrity amid growing regional uncertainty.
The closure, which took immediate effect, is believed to be part of a broader security containment strategy as rumours swirl about potential U.S. military activities in parts of West Africa.
Security analysts said the move underscores Déby’s cautious approach to preserving national stability at a time when instability in neighbouring states could spill across borders.
“The Chadian government appears to be taking no chances. The fear is that terrorist groups or foreign elements could exploit the confusion surrounding these invasion rumours to destabilise the country,” said Dr. Issa Mahamat, a N’Djamena-based political analyst.
Residents in border communities near Lake Chad reported heavy military presence overnight, with roadblocks and patrols tightening movements between Chad and Nigeria.
The latest development adds to the rising tension in the Sahel region, where countries like Niger and Mali have witnessed political and military upheavals in recent months.
Observers say the closure could affect trade and movement between both nations but note that N’Djamena’s priority appears firmly focused on national security.
For now, Chad stands on high alert — its borders sealed, troops mobilised, and its leadership wary of a regional storm brewing over the horizon.
About The Author
