Chad shuts border as ‘terrorists plan’ to flee northern Nigeria over planned US military attack

The government of Chad has announced the immediate closure of its border with Nigeria, citing security concerns after intelligence reports suggested that armed groups in northern Nigeria were preparing to cross into Chad amid mounting speculation about a potential U.S. military intervention in the region

According to sources in N’Djamena, President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno ordered a full military lockdown along key crossing points after receiving briefs that “terrorist elements” might be fleeing Nigeria in anticipation of U.S. operations. Chad’s troops, including armour and checkpoints, have reportedly been deployed to several border corridors. 

The move comes amid a rising diplomatic and security storm. The U.S., under the leadership of Donald Trump, has threatened possible military action in Nigeria, citing alleged large-scale killings of Christians and demanding Nigeria stop what the U.S. calls “Christian genocide.” 

 Nigeria in turn has accepted U.S. assistance against insurgents only if its sovereignty is respected.