Wave of Armed Attacks and Kidnappings Escalates Crisis in Northern Nigeria

Northern Nigeria is facing a deepening security crisis as armed groups continue to carry out violent raids, mass kidnappings, and attacks on villages, markets, schools, and places of worship—leaving communities in fear and families desperate for answers.

Mass Abductions at Churches in Kaduna State

On Sunday, gunmen believed to be armed bandits operating in remote forest areas stormed multiple churches in the rural Kurmin Wali community of Kaduna State during religious services. The attackers seized dozens of worshippers, with local church leaders saying around 172 people were initially taken and 168 remain unaccounted for, although police figures vary. Nine people were reported to have escaped on their own. (AP News)

Authorities initially downplayed the incident but later confirmed the abductions, saying security forces are actively searching for the captives and trying to restore calm. Rights and advocacy groups criticized the initial denial and called for better protection for civilians. (AP News)

The suspected kidnappers have reportedly made unusual demands for the hostages’ release, seeking 17 motorcycles rather than a cash ransom—reflecting how these gangs exploit local vulnerabilities to negotiate and remain mobile in dense forest terrain. (Sky News)

Killings and Abductions in Local Villages

This wave of kidnappings is part of a broader pattern of violence. Earlier this month, gunmen riding motorcycles raided a village market in Niger State, opening fire and killing at least 30 civilians, with several others kidnapped. Witnesses described a sudden, brutal assault with little warning. (Al Jazeera)

In other parts of northern Nigeria, attacks on communities continue to put pressure on already strained local security resources. Christian community groups reported that armed gangs have abducted dozens more during church services and other gatherings, further heightening fear among residents. (Facebook)

Military Response and Rescue Efforts

In response to the rising violence, the Nigerian military has launched operations in several states in the northwest. Recent raids freed 62 hostages and resulted in the deaths of two militants, as soldiers targeted known bandit hideouts deep in forest areas. (Reuters)

Despite these efforts, clashes between security forces and armed gangs also carry risks: an ambush in Zamfara State killed five soldiers and one police officer, underscoring the dangerous environment for those trying to restore order. (AP News)

Long-Term Security Challenges

This recent surge in attacks is part of a long-standing security emergency in Nigeria’s northern regions. Various groups—from organized criminal “bandits” to extremist militias such as Boko Haram and ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province)—have been driving violence for years, using kidnappings, raids and extortion to fund their activities and destabilize communities. (GCR2P)

Historically, northern Nigeria has seen some of the most shocking kidnappings on the continent, including large school abductions like the infamous 2014 Chibok case. Community leaders and families continue to call for stronger protection, improved intelligence efforts, and sustained government action to stop recurring attacks.