Banditry and Security Response in Niger State
Gunmen on motorcycles attacked three villages in Niger State's Borgu local government area on February 15, 2026, killing at least 46 people and abducting several others. As of June 28, 2026, Niger State continues to face severe banditry, with Governor Umar Bago pledging to address security challenges following recent attacks, including a June 13, 2026, attack on Pissa village that killed two and an earlier April 8, 2026, attack on the Baga community that killed five. The Nigerian Air Force conducted operations in May 2026, reportedly neutralizing several terrorists, while President Bola Tinubu condemned the escalating violence and directed intensified security operations. Five suspects were sentenced to 25 years each for their involvement in a November 2025 school attack, and the death toll from a January 2026 market attack rose to over 50.
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June 2026 — 6 developments
Niger State Villages Attacked: 46 Killed, Others Abducted in Borgu; Baga Community Raided
Gunmen on motorcycles attacked three villages in Niger State's Borgu local government area on February 15, 2026, killing at least 46 people and abducting several others. Earlier, on April 8, 2026, the Baga community was attacked, resulting in five deaths and burned homes. These incidents add to the ongoing banditry and security challenges in the region.
Niger State Governor Visits Banditry-Affected Communities, Pledges Action
Niger State Governor Umar Bago visited communities in Shiroro and Rafi Local Government Areas affected by banditry, pledging to address the security challenges. This visit follows recent incidents including a January 2026 market attack and a November 2025 student abduction.
Luigi Mangione's attorneys in plea deal talks; man arrested for attempted jailbreak
Attorneys for Luigi Mangione have been in discussions with federal prosecutors regarding a potential plea deal in his federal case. No agreement has been finalized yet. Separately, Mark Anderson was arrested on January 29, 2026, for allegedly impersonating an FBI agent to secure Mangione's release.
Gunmen attack Niger's main airport, killing 13 and arresting 20
An attack on Niger's main airport in Niamey on June 18, 2026, resulted in the deaths of 11 soldiers and two civilians. The Defense Ministry reported that 22 attackers were also killed, and 20 suspects were arrested with weapons and ammunition. The Al-Qaeda-affiliated JNIM group claimed responsibility for the incident.
Gunmen attack Niger State village, killing two and kidnapping residents; President condemns violence
Gunmen attacked Pissa village in Borgu Local Government Area on June 13, 2026, killing two people, setting houses ablaze, and kidnapping women and children. President Bola Tinubu condemned the escalating violence and directed security agencies to intensify operations.
Five Convicted for Niger State School Attack
Five suspects, including two Nigeriens, were sentenced to 25 years imprisonment each for their involvement in the November 21, 2025, attack on St Mary's Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State. This sentencing follows an earlier attack on Kasuwan Daji market in Demo village on January 3, 2026.
May 2026 — 3 developments
Niger State: Air Force strikes terrorists, gunmen attack Baga community, governor visits
The Nigerian Air Force conducted air operations between May 20-23, 2026, in Rafi and Mariga Local Government Areas, reportedly neutralizing several terrorists. Separately, over 160 gunmen attacked the Baga community, killing at least five people, burning homes, and abducting residents. Governor Abubakar Sani Bello visited communities ravaged by bandits, acknowledging the severity of attacks and the need for enhanced security.
Scores of terrorists killed in Niger military airstrike in Shiroro LGA
A military airstrike in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State in early May 2026 reportedly killed scores of terrorists and suspected informants, according to the Commissioner for Homeland Security. No civilians were reported killed in the operation. This occurred amidst ongoing violence, including a January 3, 2026, market attack where over 30 people were killed.
Niger State Market Attack Death Toll Rises to Over 50; Airstrikes Conducted in Shiroro
The death toll from the Kasuwan Daji market attack in Niger State has risen to over 50, with armed gangs looting supplies and abducting residents. Separately, gunmen reportedly killed at least 20 people in Shiroro LGA, and the Nigerian military conducted airstrikes targeting bandit gatherings in the area, claiming to have killed 70 bandits.
April 2026 — 5 developments
Niger State banditry: 32 killed in coordinated raids, 14 dead in Shiroro LGA attacks
Coordinated bandit raids in Niger State's Borgu area in April 2026 resulted in at least 32 deaths and numerous abductions. Separately, bandit attacks in Shiroro Local Government Area in April 2026 killed at least 14 people, with security forces neutralizing over 100 bandits. These incidents follow earlier attacks in February 2026 that killed six and in January 2026 that killed 30 to 50 people.
Nigerian President Buhari condemns market attack, orders security forces to apprehend perpetrators
Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari condemned the January 2026 attack on Kasuwan Daji market, ordering security forces to apprehend perpetrators and rescue abductees. On April 14, 2026, gunmen attacked Bagna and Erena villages in Niger State, killing at least 20 people and forcing residents to flee.
Militants kill Brigadier General, 133 others, abduct over 150 in northern Nigeria
Militants killed a Brigadier General and at least 133 civilians and security personnel across northern Nigeria in the week following Easter Sunday. Over 150 civilians were abducted, with a significant number taken in Niger State, highlighting ongoing security challenges.
Gunmen kill 33, abduct 150 in Niger State attacks
On April 7-8, 2026, gunmen attacked several communities in Niger State, including Shiroro LGA, resulting in at least 33 deaths and over 150 villagers abducted. The assailants destroyed homes and overwhelmed security forces, prompting residents to flee.
Gunmen kill 33 in attacks on Bagna and surrounding villages in Niger State
Gunmen killed at least 33 people, including security operatives and civilians, in attacks on Bagna and surrounding villages in Shiroro Local Government Area, Niger State, in early April 2026. This incident follows a January 2026 attack on Kasuwan Daji market where 30 to 50 people were killed.
March 2026 — 2 developments
Niger State Governor Bago pledges to end banditry after deadly attacks
Niger State Governor Umar Bago has pledged to end banditry and other criminal activities plaguing the state, emphasizing a renewed commitment to security. This statement follows a series of deadly attacks in January and February 2026, including a market raid that claimed at least 30 lives.
Suspected terrorists bomb bridge in Niger State, hindering security operations
Suspected terrorists bombed a bridge in Niger State on March 23, 2026, using explosives to hinder security operations. This incident follows a pattern of terror-related violence, including a market attack on January 4, 2026, that killed at least 30 villagers and abducted many others.
February 2026 — 4 developments
Gunmen attacks on Niger State villages kill at least 46, burn homes
The death toll from coordinated gunmen attacks on three villages in Niger State has risen to at least 46, according to a report citing witnesses and local police. The village of Konkoso experienced the bloodiest attack, with at least 38 people killed and many homes burned. An attack on Tunga-Makeri village resulted in six deaths, with some houses set ablaze.
Gunmen kill 32 in Niger State raids, abduct residents
Coordinated dawn raids by gunmen on three communities in Niger State—Tunga-Makeri, Konkoso, and Pissa—have resulted in the deaths of at least 32 people. Six individuals were killed in Tunga-Makeri, where an unspecified number of people were also abducted. A resident reported 26 deaths in Konkoso.
Armed assailants kill 30, burn homes in Nigeria's Niger State village raids
Armed assailants on motorbikes killed at least 30 people and burned houses and shops during raids on three villages in northwest Nigeria's Niger State. These attacks in the Borgu Local Government Area are part of a surge blamed on "bandits" who have carried out deadly assaults and abductions across the region.
President Tinubu orders full deployment of security forces after Niger State bandit attacks
President Bola Tinubu has ordered the full deployment of military, police, and intelligence services to apprehend the perpetrators of recent bandit attacks in Niger State. These attacks have resulted in at least 32 deaths and an unspecified number of abductions in the Borgu area.
January 2026 — 46 developments
Suspected Terrorists Kill Seven in Wawa, Niger State, Including Park Staff
Suspected terrorists killed seven people in Wawa, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, including a Kainji Lake National Park staff member. Additionally, a previous attack on Kasuwan-Daji village resulted in at least 30 deaths and several abductions, with the local market and houses being razed.
Police confirm six bodies recovered after bandit attack in Niger State's Wawa community
Police confirmed that six bodies were recovered following a new bandit attack in the Wawa community of Niger State's Borgu Local Government Area on January 22, 2026. The attack occurred when a man and his son were ambushed on their way to a farm.
Armed Bandits Kill Six Farmers in Niger State Attack
Suspected armed bandits attacked Unguwar Wawa community in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, killing at least six farmers. The assailants opened fire on farmers working in their fields on Friday night.
Nigerian soldiers rescue 62 hostages, kill two militants in Zamfara forest
Nigerian soldiers rescued 62 hostages and killed two militants in a separate operation in the Munhaye Forest of Zamfara state.
Niger State government orders Kainji Lake residents to evacuate; UN calls for stronger civilian protection
The Niger State government directed residents in hamlets around Kainji Lake to vacate the area. Additionally, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria called for stronger protection of civilians, civilian spaces, and schools.
Niger State Governor Bago clarifies Kasuwan Daji Market attack by rival bandit groups
Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago clarified that the attack on Kasuwan Daji Market was carried out by rival bandit groups fighting over control of the illegal cattle trade. This reframes the perpetrators from the previously stated Boko Haram fighters.
Niger Governor Bago attributes Kasuwan Daji market attack to Boko Haram
Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago described Kasuwan Daji market as a 'market of thieves' and attributed the January 3rd attack, which killed over 40 locals, to Boko Haram fighters. He stated the market was targeted because rustled cattle are sold there.
Niger State Governor Orders Immediate Closure of Kasuwan Daji Market After Deadly Attack
The Niger State government has ordered the immediate closure of Kasuwan Daji market following the deadly attack, with Governor Umar Bago issuing the directive during a condolence visit.
Abubakar Saidu's Boko Haram faction linked to Kasuwan Daji Market attack and child kidnapping
A specific Boko Haram faction, led by Abubakar Saidu, was implicated in the Kasuwan Daji Market attack and was also linked to the November kidnapping of 300 children.
Gunmen attack Kasuwan Daji village, burning homes and abducting residents
Gunmen on motorcycles attacked Kasuwan Daji village on January 3rd, opening fire at the market, burning homes, looting food supplies, and abducting residents. This occurred amidst an escalation in Nigeria's insurgent conflict, following US missile strikes in December targeting Islamic State camps in Sokoto State.
Bandit Attacks Cause Widespread Destruction and Displacement
Bandit attacks have led to widespread destruction and significant displacement, forcing many families to abandon their homes due to persistent insecurity and a perceived lack of security presence.
Kasuwan Daji residents report new bandit sightings, dispute official casualty figures
Residents of Kasuwan Daji reported sighting suspected bandits in the area days after the deadly market attack, raising fears of continued insecurity. The community also disputed official casualty figures, claiming between 42 and 60 people were killed.
Murtala Dantoro Blames Attack on Security Absence and Government Failure
A member of the Borgu Royal Family, Murtala Dantoro, blamed the attack on the absence of security presence and "systematic failure" by both federal and state governments.
Nigerian Minister Abdullahi extends condolences to communities affected by Kasuwan Daji attacks
Nigeria's Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, extended condolences to the communities affected by the attacks in Kasuwan Daji.
Gunmen raze houses and market in Kasuwan-Daji village
Gunmen also razed several houses during the attack on Kasuwan-Daji village, in addition to the market. This incident occurred shortly after Niger State authorities announced a phased reopening of schools.
UN Coordinator Mohamed Fall expresses deep concern over Kasuwan-Daji Market attack
The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Mohamed Fall, expressed deep concern over the January 3, 2026, attack on Kasuwan-Daji Market, emphasizing it as a serious violation of human rights.
President Tinubu orders security forces to track terrorists after Kasuwan Daji market attack date clarified
The Kasuwan Daji market attack, which killed over 50 people including Reverend Ishaya Bamayi, is now reported to have occurred on January 6th, not January 3rd. Following the incident, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ordered the military, police, and DSS to track down the responsible terrorists.
Bandits kill residents, burn homes in Niger and Kebby states
Heavily armed bandits conducted coordinated assaults across several communities in Niger State, extending into parts of Kebby State, between December 28, 2025, and January 3, 2026, killing residents and burning homes.
Nigerian lawmakers condemn Kasuwan Daji Market attack as death toll rises to 50
The death toll from the attack on Kasuwan Daji Market has risen to 50, up from an initial 42. The Speaker of the House of Representatives and a Senator have condemned the attack and mourned the victims.
UN Coordinator calls for stronger protection of civilians and schools in Niger State
The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator called for stronger protection of civilians and schools in Niger State. A mass funeral was held for the victims, while residents reported security forces were slow to arrive and attackers came from the National Park Forest.
Pastor identified among over 50 killed in Kasuwan Daji market attack
A pastor was identified among the over 50 people killed during the attack on Kasuwan Daji market.
Gunmen kill 50, abduct residents in Niger State market attack; President Tinubu orders manhunt
Gunmen, described as bandits, attacked the Kasuwan Daji market in Demo village, Niger State, on Saturday, January 4, 2026, killing at least 50 people and abducting several residents. The attackers set stalls on fire, looted food supplies, and fired indiscriminately. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has ordered a manhunt for the perpetrators and directed security forces to rescue the abducted victims.
Colonel Yahaya: Niger State market attack preventable, terrorists used RPG
Colonel Yahaya suggested the Niger State market attack was preventable due to unaddressed early warnings. Reports also indicated that terrorists used a Rocket Propelled Grenade during the January 3rd attack.
Colonel Yahaya states market attack with 55+ deaths was preventable due to ignored warnings
Colonel Yahaya stated that the market attack, which resulted in over 55 deaths and more than 100 abductions, was preventable due to early warnings that were not acted upon. This new death toll is higher than previously reported figures.
President Tinubu condemns Kasuwan Daji market attack after new abduction details emerge
Several individuals were abducted during the Kasuwan Daji market attack, a detail not previously reported. President Bola Tinubu also condemned the incident.
Niger State Governor Bago Condemns Terrorist Attack in Borgu, Offers Condolences
Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago expressed profound sadness over the terrorist attack on communities in the Borgu local government area, describing it as cruel and extending condolences for the numerous deaths, kidnappings, and destruction.
Bandits execute 42 men in Kasuwan Daji during attacks in Niger and Kebbi states
Bandits reportedly roamed parts of Niger and Kebbi states for days, carrying out coordinated attacks between December 28th and January 3rd. During these attacks, 42 men were executed in Kasuwan Daji.
Police confirm market attack, multiple communities affected with 42 casualties in Agwarra and Borgu LGAs
Police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun officially confirmed the market attack. New reports also indicate the attacks affected multiple communities in Agwarra and Borgu LGAs, including Kaima village, with casualties including 37 in Kasuwa Daji and 5 in Kaima village.
Security Forces Launch Rescue Operation After Market Attack, Mass Funeral Held for Victims
Security forces have launched a rescue operation following the attack where gunmen reportedly set the market ablaze and rounded up, tied, and killed residents. A mass funeral was held for the victims, and the wounded are receiving treatment.
President Tinubu condemns Niger market attack, orders security measures
The death toll from the market attack in Demo village, Niger State, has risen to 50. President Bola Tinubu has condemned the attack and ordered security measures in response.
President Tinubu suspects fleeing terrorists behind recent attacks, contradicting police claims
Residents reported that security forces had not yet arrived at the scene, contradicting police claims of deployment. President Bola Tinubu also stated that the perpetrators are suspected terrorists fleeing recent U.S.-assisted airstrikes.
President Tinubu orders urgent security response after 42 killed, others abducted in Niger State attacks
At least 42 people were killed and an unspecified number, including children, were abducted in attacks by terrorists on communities in Agwarra and Borgu LGAs of Niger State. Following these attacks, President Bola Tinubu ordered an urgent security response, instructing top security officials to pursue the attackers and rescue all captives.
Attackers execute 42 men, abduct civilians, and destroy Catholic mission in market attack
During the January 3rd market attack, 42 men were tied up and executed, and many people, including women and children, were abducted. Attackers also set the market ablaze, looted shops, and destroyed a Catholic mission house.
Nigerian President Tinubu condemns Kasuwan Daji market attack and student abductions
Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu condemned the January 3rd attack on Kasuwan Daji market. Among those abducted were students from St. Mary's Private Catholic Schools in Papiri, some of whom were reportedly re-abducted after previous escapes.
President Tinubu condemns Demo village attack, directs security agencies to pursue assailants
The attack occurred in Demo village, Kabe District, and President Bola Tinubu condemned the attack, directing security agencies to pursue the assailants.
Boko Haram faction suspected in market attack near previous abduction site
The perpetrators of the market attack are suspected to be from a Boko Haram faction. The incident also occurred near the site of a schoolchildren abduction from the previous year.
Gunmen loot food and goods from Kasuwan Daji market during attack
During the attack on Kasuwan Daji market, the gunmen looted food items and other goods before fleeing.
Raids on Kasuwan Daji market part of series of attacks in nearby communities
The attack on Kasuwan Daji market is reported to be part of a series of raids that commenced on Friday in nearby communities such as Agwarra and Borgu.
President Tinubu orders security forces to apprehend Kasuwan Daji attackers and rescue kidnapped victims
President Bola Tinubu has ordered the military, police, and State Security Service to track down and apprehend those responsible for the Kasuwan Daji attack. He also directed security agencies to urgently rescue all kidnapped victims.
Bandits on motorcycles attack, believed to operate from Kainji Lake National Park
The assailants, identified as bandits, arrived on motorcycles to carry out the attack. They are believed to operate from Kainji Lake National Park.
Gunmen emerge from National Park Forest, killing 42 in Agwarra and Borgu LGAs
The death toll from the attack has risen to at least 42 people. Authorities believe the gunmen, who had been conducting a series of raids in Agwarra and Borgu LGAs for over a week, emerged from the National Park Forest.
Gunmen lurked for a week before three-hour attack, survivors fear to recover bodies
A resident, speaking anonymously, stated that the gunmen had been lurking around nearby communities for about a week before the attack, which lasted for up to three hours. Survivors are reportedly too afraid to recover the bodies without security presence.
Catholic Church spokesman reports gunmen killed over 40 and abducted children in Kontagora Diocese
Rev. Fr. Stephen Kabirat, spokesman for the Catholic Church of Kontagora Diocese, where the attack occurred, told local media that the gunmen killed more than 40 people and that some of those abducted were children.
Residents contradict police security claims, report higher death toll and missing persons
Residents contradicted the police's claim of security deployment, reporting that security forces had yet to arrive in the area as of Sunday. Some residents also put the death toll higher, at 37, and suggested it could be much greater as people remained missing.
Niger State Police Confirm Over 30 Killed, Others Kidnapped in Attack
Niger State police spokesman Wasiu Abiodun confirmed the attack, stating that over 30 victims lost their lives and some persons were kidnapped. He added that a joint security team had visited the scene and efforts were ongoing to rescue the kidnapped victims.
Armed men attack Kasuwan-Daji village, abducting residents and burning market
Armed men attacked Kasuwan-Daji village, abducting an unspecified number of residents and setting fire to the local market, looting shops, and destroying homes. Police have since deployed an emergency response team and launched search-and-rescue operations.
August 2025 — 1 developments
Nigerian Army warns criminals in Kontagora after artillery demo; US reports terror kidnapping plots in Niger
The Nigerian Army has warned criminal elements that Kontagora and its environs are no longer safe havens, following a field demonstration of artillery guns. Additionally, the U.S. Department of State reported that terrorists are actively planning kidnappings in Niger and may carry out attacks anywhere in the country.