More than 30 killed and several abducted in central Nigeria attack

Sunday 04 January 2026 - 14:30

By: Sahili Aya

More than 30 killed and several abducted in central Nigeria attack

More than 30 people were killed and several others abducted on Saturday during an attack carried out by armed groups in Niger State, located in central-northern Nigeria, according to local security officials.

The assault targeted rural communities, where heavily armed criminal gangs—commonly referred to as “bandits”—have increasingly carried out raids involving killings, kidnappings, and looting. Police authorities confirmed that the death toll exceeded 30, while an unspecified number of residents were taken hostage during the violence.

Niger State, like several regions in central and northwestern Nigeria, has been plagued by persistent insecurity driven by criminal networks operating from remote forest areas. These groups often target villages and markets, exacerbating humanitarian concerns and forcing many residents to flee their homes.

Security forces have launched operations to pursue the attackers and rescue the abducted victims, while authorities reiterated their commitment to restoring order in the affected areas. The incident highlights the ongoing challenge Nigeria faces in combating armed banditry and protecting civilians.