The Presidency on Sunday released a concise update on Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts, outlining arrests, convictions, and a marked decline in terror-related fatalities since 2023.
The statement, posted on the official X handle @NGRPresident, comes amid renewed diplomatic tension following allegations by U.S. President Donald Trump accusing Nigeria of genocide against Christians and designating the country as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC). Washington has further threatened sanctions and hinted at possible military action.
The Federal Government has repeatedly dismissed the claims as unfounded, stressing that Nigeria faces a multifaceted security crisis—driven by terrorism, banditry, and communal violence—rather than religious persecution. It maintains that victims cut across all regions and faiths, and continues to seek support from international partners, including the United States, to suppress the decade-long insurgency.
Reaffirming President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s position that “the security of Nigeria is non-negotiable,” the Presidency said enhanced inter-agency collaboration has strengthened the fight against terrorists and insurgents since 2023. According to the released figures, security forces have “vigorously pursued, arrested, eliminated or successfully convicted” those behind some of the nation’s deadliest attacks.
Since 2024, more than 124 terrorists and insurgents have been convicted, while several high-profile suspects—including leaders of Ansaru and individuals linked to the 2022 Owo Church massacre and the Yelwata reprisal killings in Benue—are currently facing trial.
The update highlighted intensified counterterrorism measures such as reinforced joint security task forces, improved border patrols with regional allies, permanent joint operations in vulnerable zones, increased support for victims, and expanded intelligence collaboration with international partners.
The Presidency reported measurable gains, stating that terror-related deaths in Nigeria have declined by 81% compared with 2015, attributing the progress to heightened military operations and improved engagement with affected communities.
It further disclosed that over 13,000 terrorists were neutralised in the past year, while more than 124,000 fighters and their dependents have surrendered. Additionally, more than 2.1 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) have returned home as reconstruction activities restore stability in several areas.
To support long-term recovery, the Federal Government has launched a Resettlement Scheme for Persons Impacted by Conflict to facilitate rehabilitation, rebuild destroyed settlements, and enhance reintegration efforts.
Despite notable gains, the government reiterated the need for sustained international cooperation, stressing that global collaboration remains essential to dismantling cross-border terror networks.
ADVERTISEMENTS
