Assailants kill at least 30 in northwest Nigeria villages, residents say

The Guardian World

by Reuters in Maiduguri

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Armed assailants on motorbikes attacked three villages in northwest Nigeria’s Niger State early Saturday, killing at least 30 people and burning houses and shops. The victims were caught off guard as the attackers fired indiscriminately and torched buildings during the raids. These incidents occurred in the Borgu local government area near the border with Benin Republic, adding to a growing wave of violence attributed to “bandits” who have plagued northern Nigeria. These groups are known for deadly assaults, abductions for ransom, and displacing communities. The surge in attacks has heightened concerns over security in the region. Local residents reported fleeing their homes as bandits on motorcycles overran the villages, leaving destruction in their wake. The violence underscores a broader pattern of instability across northern Nigeria, where similar incidents have become increasingly common. This latest escalation highlights the challenges faced by authorities in curbing the activities of these armed groups. The attacks have left communities in disarray, with many losing loved ones and livelihoods. Local leaders and residents are calling for urgent intervention to restore safety and order. The situation is particularly worrying given its proximity to international borders, which complicates efforts to contain the violence. This incident reflects a broader regional security crisis that has far-reaching implications. It raises questions about the effectiveness of Nigeria’s security forces in addressing the root causes of such violence and ensuring protection for citizens. The escalation of attacks by bandits underscores the fragile state of security in northern Nigeria, with potential spillover effects on neighboring countries. For readers interested in global security trends, this event highlights the ongoing challenges faced by governments in addressing armed groups that operate across borders. The situation in Nigeria also underscores the humanitarian toll of such violence, with displaced communities and families struggling to cope with loss and uncertainty.

Verticals

worldpolitics

Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/14/2026