Rising Terror in the Northeast: 26 Incidents Leave 227 Dead Across Three States in Four Months
A disturbing resurgence in terrorist violence has gripped Nigeria’s Northeast, with Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states recording 26 attacks and at least 227 fatalities between January and April 2025. This wave of bloodshed, attributed to Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents, signals a troubling deterioration in security, particularly in Borno, which appears to bear the brunt of the violence.
Despite official statements suggesting significant progress in counterterrorism efforts, recent field reports and casualty figures tell a different story. Analysis indicates that at least six military installations were targeted within the review period. Among the victims were an army commander, a captain, 22 other soldiers, two police officers, and at least 36 insurgents. Additionally, nearly 100 civilians—mainly farmers and fishermen—were killed.
Observers partly blame this escalation on the redeployment of military air assets such as Super Tucano planes and attack helicopters from the Northeast to the Northwest, leaving vulnerable communities exposed. Others cite Nigeria’s porous borders with Chad and Niger, which allow militants to infiltrate and regroup.
This renewed campaign of terror has resulted in widespread destruction and the looting of military equipment. Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has raised alarm over what he describes as a siege on his district.
“Losing Ground” in Borno
Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, during an expanded security meeting on April 8, voiced grave concerns over the spate of unchecked attacks and abductions. Citing incidents in Wajirko, Sabon Gari (Damboa LGA), Wulgo (Gamboru Ngala LGA), and Izge (Gwoza LGA), he warned that the state was “losing ground” despite years of military and state-led security support.
The meeting was attended by top military officers, police chiefs, traditional rulers including the Shehu of Borno, and other regional leaders. Zulum commended the Federal Government for its support but emphasized the urgent need for advanced military equipment and surveillance technology to counter the growing threat—especially in the Sahelian belt bordering Cameroon, Niger, and Chad.
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