The government of Chad has closed its land border with Nigeria following rising tensions over recent comments by U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting possible military action in Nigeria.

Chad’s President, Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, announced the closure on Monday, citing national security concerns and the need to protect the country’s sovereignty. He also ordered the deployment of soldiers and armoured vehicles to secure major border points shared with Nigeria.

In a statement released by the Chadian government, authorities said the move was necessary to prevent infiltration by armed groups and to avoid being drawn into any external conflict. “Chad will not allow any foreign force or militant group to use its territory for military operations,” the statement added.

The decision comes after Trump threatened U.S. intervention in Nigeria over alleged killings of Christians a remark that has sparked global and regional reactions.

Security experts say the closure could affect trade and the movement of people between both countries, especially in border communities that rely heavily on cross-border commerce.

Nigeria is yet to officially respond to the development, but diplomatic sources say discussions may soon begin between both countries to ease tensions and maintain cooperation in fighting terrorism across the Lake Chad region.