Chad Shuts Border as “Terrorists Plan” to Flee Northern Nigeria Amid Reported U.S. Military Operation
Chad Shuts Border as “Terrorists Plan” to Flee Northern Nigeria Amid Reported U.S. Military Operation
The Government of Chad has announced the immediate closure of its border with Nigeria, citing intelligence reports suggesting that insurgent elements and armed groups in northern Nigeria may attempt to cross into Chadian territory to evade a possible U.S. military strike in the region.
According to a statement released in N’Djamena, the decision was made “in the interest of national security and regional stability,” following widespread reports of a planned United States-led military intervention targeting terrorist networks accused of orchestrating mass killings and persecution of Christians in Nigeria and neighboring countries.
The Chadian government said its security agencies had been placed on high alert, with military reinforcements deployed along major border corridors, particularly near Borno and Yobe States — areas notorious for Boko Haram and ISWAP activities.
“We cannot allow any spillover of the conflict or provide safe passage for individuals who may threaten the peace and security of our citizens,” a Chadian defense ministry official stated.
This move comes amid heightened tension in the Sahel region, as reports of U.S. reconnaissance flights and troop mobilizations in parts of West Africa circulate widely on social media.
In Nigeria, the situation has sparked mixed reactions — with some viewing the alleged U.S. plan as a humanitarian response to years of unchecked violence against Christians and minority groups, while others warn it could escalate into a broader regional crisis.
Meanwhile, security analysts note that Chad’s border closure could have far-reaching implications for trade, migration, and regional cooperation under the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which jointly combats insurgency across Nigeria, Chad, Niger, and Cameroon.
As diplomatic sources continue to monitor developments, observers say the unfolding situation underscores growing international concern over insecurity in northern Nigeria and the Sahel.
