Nigeria faced an alarming surge in violent attacks throughout 2025, as terrorism, banditry, and other forms of criminal violence claimed the lives of more than 2,200 people within the first half of the year alone. The worsening security situation affected nearly every region of the country, leaving communities devastated and heightening public concern over safety.
Reports indicate a noticeable escalation of insurgent activity in the North-East, increased bandit attacks in the North-West and North-Central zones, and a rise in communal clashes across parts of the Middle Belt and South-South. The violence intensified toward the end of the year, with at least 82 fatalities recorded in December.
According to figures cited by Daily Post, kidnappings also reached unprecedented levels in 2025, with reports claiming that over two million Nigerians were abducted during the year. These abductions were largely concentrated in the North-West and North-Central regions and were often linked to ransom demands or other criminal motives.
Benue Attack Leaves Nation in Shock
One of the most devastating incidents occurred on June 13, 2025, in Yelewata community, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. Armed attackers suspected to be herdsmen invaded the area, killing nearly 200 residents, most of them farmers and traders. The attack sparked national outrage and plunged the community into mourning.
Earlier that day, security operatives reportedly prevented the attackers from reaching a nearby church sheltering hundreds of displaced persons. However, the assailants later struck a crowded area of the community, resulting in heavy casualties and the destruction of property, including facilities housing displaced families.
Zamfara Kidnapping Turns Deadly
In Zamfara State, tragedy struck on July 27 when bandits killed at least 40 villagers who had earlier been abducted, despite ransom payments made on their behalf. The victims were part of a group of 56 people kidnapped in March from Banga village in Kauran Namoda Local Government Area.
While 16 captives were eventually freed, the remaining abductees, including vulnerable individuals, were reportedly killed, highlighting the growing brutality of kidnapping gangs in the region.
Boko Haram Attack Near Cameroon Border
On September 3, Boko Haram fighters launched an assault on Darul Jamal community near the Nigeria–Cameroon border in Borno State. The attack claimed more than 80 lives, including five soldiers stationed at a nearby military post. The incident occurred shortly after displaced residents had begun returning to the area.
In response, the Nigerian Air Force carried out counter-operations, reportedly neutralizing dozens of the attackers.
Plateau Suffers Repeated Violence
Plateau State recorded over 150 deaths from multiple attacks in 2025. In January, gunmen killed about 30 people in Mangu town. Another assault in April on the Bokko District resulted in at least 53 deaths and forced more than 2,000 residents to flee their homes.
Further violence in June targeted communities in Riyom Local Government Area, leaving at least 58 people dead and displacing approximately 15,000 residents.
School and Worship Centres Targeted
On November 17, bandits attacked the Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, abducting 24 students during a night raid. The school’s vice principal was killed while attempting to protect the girls. All abducted students were later rescued following security interventions.
The following day, November 18, terrorists attacked a Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku town, Kwara State. At least eight worshippers were killed, and several others, including the pastor, were abducted. The incident triggered fear nationwide and led to reduced attendance at public gatherings.
Niger School Abduction Sparks National Anger
Another major incident occurred on November 21, when gunmen stormed St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, abducting 303 students and 12 teachers in the early hours of the morning. The attackers reportedly moved through the school hostels before leading their captives into nearby forests.
The incident provoked widespread condemnation and renewed debate over the safety of schools across Nigeria. While about 50 students escaped during the attack, the remaining victims were released gradually. By December 21, all abducted students and teachers had regained their freedom.
A Year of Deepening Concern
The scale and spread of violence in 2025 underscored Nigeria’s growing security challenges. From mass killings to kidnappings targeting schools and places of worship, the year left many citizens anxious and grieving, while intensifying calls for more effective security measures and long-term solutions to the country’s persistent insecurity.
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