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  • Terrorists Attack Kwara Community, Many Feared Dead As Residents Flee

    Many residents have reportedly been feared dead while several others were abducted after suspected terrorists launched a fresh attack in parts of Kwara State.

    The attack reportedly occurred on Saturday night in the Ikerin/Ajuba axis of Ekiti Local Government Area, throwing residents into panic.

    Residents Flee As Gunmen Invade Community

    According to local sources, the attackers stormed the communities heavily armed and operated for hours without immediate resistance.

    Sources told journalists that several residents were injured during the invasion, while many others were allegedly kidnapped.

    “Yes, it is true but the exact numbers of the people kidnapped, injured and killed have yet to be confirmed,” a source reportedly said.

    Another resident described the incident as chaotic, saying villagers woke up to heavy gunfire and screaming.

    “The shooting was heavy. Everybody ran. We don’t even know who is alive or missing now,” the source added.

    Fear Grows Across Kwara South

    The latest attack has intensified fear across communities in Kwara South, where residents have repeatedly complained about rising insecurity and frequent raids by armed groups.

    Many locals say farming activities and movement across villages have become increasingly dangerous due to kidnappings and violent attacks.

    The development has also renewed concerns over the growing spread of terrorist and bandit activities into parts of the North-Central region.

    Residents Demand Urgent Security Intervention

    Following the attack, residents and community leaders reportedly called on security agencies and the government to urgently strengthen security presence in the area.

    As of the time of filing this report, authorities were yet to officially confirm the casualty figures or issue a detailed statement regarding the incident.

  • DHQ Denies Existence of Terrorist Base in South-West Amid Oyo School Abduction

    The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed reports suggesting the existence of a terrorist base in the South-West, insisting that ongoing military operations are targeted at rescuing abducted victims and tracking criminal elements behind recent attacks in Oyo State.

    The clarification was made on Tuesday in Abuja by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja.

    DHQ reacts to Oyo school attack

    Onoja said the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, had sympathised with the government and people of Oyo State following the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.

    He condemned the attack on the affected schools, describing the abduction of innocent children and education workers as criminal and unacceptable.

    According to him, the Armed Forces have already deployed personnel and operational resources to ensure the victims are rescued safely.

    “The full weight of the Armed Forces is being brought to bear to ensure the safe return of all abducted victims,” he said.

    “No terrorist base in South-West”

    The defence spokesman maintained that intelligence available to security agencies does not support claims of an organised terrorist structure operating in the South-West region.

    According to him, previous clearance operations carried out within the Old Oyo National Park had already neutralised criminal elements operating around the area.

    “The incident in Oyo State remains an isolated criminal act and does not indicate the presence of an entrenched insurgent structure in the region,” Onoja stated.

    He warned against spreading narratives capable of creating panic or emboldening criminal groups.

    Troops tracking abductors

    Onoja further disclosed that troops had established contact with the abductors and were currently sustaining pursuit operations across forest routes linked to the attack.

    He said joint operations involving other security agencies and local vigilante groups were ongoing to flush out criminal elements and restore normalcy in affected communities.

    The military also appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies with credible intelligence to aid rescue operations.

    “The Armed Forces will not relent until all abducted victims are rescued and those responsible are brought to justice,” he added.

  • US lawmaker: Trump to hunt terrorists behind attacks on Christians in Nigeria after ISIS strike

    United States Congressman Riley Moore has said President Donald Trump is prepared to go after terrorists responsible for attacks on Christians in Nigeria, following a reported joint operation that killed a senior Islamic State commander. The statement has reignited debate around foreign involvement in Nigeria’s security challenges.

    Moore speaks on ISIS operation

    Moore made the comments during a television interview on NewsNation, where he referenced the killing of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, described as one of ISIS’s top global commanders.

    He said the operation reflected a stronger posture by Washington against extremist groups operating across Africa, particularly those linked to violence against civilians.

    According to him, the strike sends a clear message to terror networks that the United States is actively monitoring and responding to threats in the region.

    Trump’s alleged focus on Nigeria security concerns

    Moore also claimed that Trump had shown personal interest in reports of violence affecting Christian communities in Nigeria.

    He stated that the former US president had asked for closer examination of the situation, prompting visits by members of the House Appropriations Committee to assess conditions on the ground.

    He added that findings from those engagements were later shared with the White House, with recommendations on how to strengthen protection for vulnerable communities.

    US and Nigeria security cooperation

    The lawmaker further noted that cooperation between the United States and Nigeria on counterterrorism is not new, tracing it back to the rise of Boko Haram in the mid-2010s.

    He explained that recent developments only reinforced the need for continued collaboration, especially in the Lake Chad region where extremist groups remain active.

    Nigerian defence authorities had earlier confirmed that the recent operation was intelligence-driven and carried out jointly with US support, targeting a key terrorist structure in the northeast.

    Security officials also linked the killed ISIS commander to weapons production, drone coordination and propaganda activities within the group’s global network.

    The development comes amid renewed international attention on Nigeria’s security landscape and the ongoing fight against insurgency across parts of the country.

  • Nigerian Military, US Forces Kill Over 20 ISIS Fighters in Fresh Borno Airstrikes

    The Nigerian military has announced the killing of more than 20 suspected ISIS and ISWAP fighters during fresh coordinated airstrike operations carried out with support from the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) in Borno State.

    According to the military, the operation targeted terrorist enclaves around Metele, a northern Borno community that has repeatedly come under insurgent attacks.

    DHQ confirms joint operation

    The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba.

    According to the Defence Headquarters, the strikes followed intelligence reports indicating movement and gathering of terrorist fighters within the area.

    “The Defence Headquarters, in close coordination with United States Africa Command, wish to update the general public on the continuation of coordinated operations against ISIS militants across North-East Nigeria, with additional air strike operations successfully executed in the general area of Metele,” the statement read.

    The military said several coordinated airstrikes were launched on identified terrorist positions, leading to the death of more than 20 fighters linked to ISIS and ISWAP.

    Operation follows killing of ISIS commander

    The latest offensive comes days after Nigerian and American forces reportedly carried out another joint operation that led to the killing of notorious ISIS commander Abu-Bilal al-Minuki.

    According to the Defence Headquarters, the ongoing operations are aimed at weakening terrorist networks, restricting insurgent movements and preventing them from establishing operational bases within Nigeria.

    “The ongoing operations follow the neutralisation of ISIS commander Abu-Bilal al-Minuki and are part of sustained efforts to disrupt terrorist networks, remove them from the battlefield and deny the terrorists any safe haven within Nigeria,” Uba stated.

    Military vows sustained offensive

    The Armed Forces of Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining military offensives against insurgents across the country.

    “The Armed Forces of Nigeria will continue to aggressively defend the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of the nation,” the military said.

    “Terrorists who threaten our citizens, communities and national stability will be located and defeated. There will be no safe haven for all terrorists anywhere in Nigeria.”

  • Oyo School Abduction: Kidnapped Principal, Nursing Mother Plead For Help In Viral Video

    Terrorists who abducted students and staff of Community High School, Esinele in Oyo State have released a video showing the school principal and another victim appealing for urgent rescue.

    The victims were reportedly kidnapped during an attack on the school on Friday morning, an incident that has sparked fresh concerns over rising insecurity in parts of the South-West.

    Principal Pleads For Government Intervention

    In the video, the principal of the school, Mrs Alamu, confirmed that students and staff were taken during the attack, urging authorities to act swiftly to secure their release.

    She appealed directly to the Federal Government, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the Christian Association of Nigeria, and well-meaning Nigerians to intervene.

    According to her, the abducted victims are in distress and need urgent help to return safely to their families.

    Nursing Mother Breaks Down In Tears

    In a separate clip, a nursing mother identified as Aiyedaunsi Temitope also appealed for assistance, describing the ordeal as traumatic.

    She said she previously worked at First Baptist Church in Ogbomosho before the attack and pleaded for negotiations to secure their release.

    “They are all crying… please help us so we will not lose our lives,” she said tearfully in the video.

    Growing Security Concerns

    The incident adds to growing fears over repeated school attacks and kidnappings in different parts of the country, with residents calling for stronger security presence around vulnerable communities.

    Authorities are yet to issue an official update on rescue efforts or the number of victims affected.

  • Tinubu Confirms Killing Of Senior ISIS Leader In Joint Nigeria-US Operation

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has confirmed the killing of senior Islamic State commander Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, during a joint counterterrorism operation carried out by Nigerian and United States forces in the Lake Chad Basin.

    In a statement released from the State House on Saturday, Tinubu described the overnight operation as a major breakthrough in the fight against terrorism and praised the collaboration between both countries.

    Tinubu Praises Joint Military Strike

    According to the president, the Nigerian Armed Forces worked closely with U.S. military personnel to execute what he described as a daring operation against the terrorist group.

    “Overnight, Nigeria and the United States recorded a significant example of effective collaboration in the fight against terrorism,” Tinubu stated.

    “Early assessments confirm the elimination of the wanted IS senior leader, Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, along with several of his lieutenants, during a strike on his compound in the Lake Chad Basin.”

    Tinubu also thanked Donald Trump for supporting the operation.

    “Nigeria appreciates this partnership with the United States in advancing our shared security objectives,” he added.

    Trump Calls Terrorist ‘Most Active In The World’

    Trump had earlier confirmed the operation in a statement shared on Truth Social on Friday.

    The U.S. president described Al-Manuki as “the most active terrorist in the world” and claimed he was the second-in-command of ISIS globally.

    “Tonight, at my direction, brave American forces and the Armed Forces of Nigeria flawlessly executed a meticulously planned and very complex mission,” Trump wrote.

    He further stated that the terrorist leader believed he could hide in Africa without detection.

    “Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, second in command of ISIS globally, thought he could hide in Africa, but little did he know we had sources who kept us informed on what he was doing,” he said.

    Renewed Offensive Against Terror Groups

    The operation comes amid intensified military offensives against insurgent groups operating across the North-East and Lake Chad region.

    Islamic State-linked factions have continued to launch attacks on military formations and civilian communities in the region despite ongoing security operations.

    Trump also noted that Al-Manuki had been placed under U.S. sanctions in 2023 because of his links to the Islamic State group.

    “With his removal, ISIS’s global operation is greatly diminished,” he stated.

  • Ribadu Meets US Vice President J.D. Vance, Rubio Over Counterterrorism Partnership

    Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has met with United States Vice President J.D. Vance and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio over counterterrorism cooperation in West Africa.

    The development was disclosed in a post shared on X by Secure Nigeria, a platform focused on security-related issues in the country.

    Nigeria, US Strengthen Security Cooperation

    According to the post, the meeting further reinforced the partnership between Nigeria and the United States in the fight against terrorism across the West African region.

    The platform also stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appreciates the continued support and partnership of the US government under President Donald Trump.

    “@officialABAT is grateful for @realDonaldTrump’s partnership and continued U.S. training and intelligence support as Nigerian forces intensify operations to dismantle terrorist networks, protect Nigerian Christians, and defend all vulnerable communities,” the statement read.

    Nigeria Described as Key US Ally

    The post described Nigeria as one of America’s frontline allies against terrorism in Africa, particularly in the battle against Boko Haram, ISIS-linked groups, and growing security threats across the Sahel region.

    “Africa’s largest democracy isn’t wavering. Nigeria stands as a frontline U.S. partner against ISIS, Boko Haram, and rising terror threats across the Sahel,” the statement added.

    It further stressed that both countries remain committed to defeating terrorism and strengthening regional security cooperation.

    “This fight is winnable, and together, the U.S. and Nigeria intend to finish it,” the post stated.

    Previous Engagements With US Officials

    The latest meeting comes months after Ribadu led a delegation of senior Nigerian government officials to Washington, DC, in November 2025 for discussions with American authorities.

    In December 2025, the NSA also hosted a delegation from the United States Congress in Abuja.

    The delegation included senior lawmakers such as Mario Díaz-Balart, Norma Torres, Scott Franklin, Juan Ciscomani, and Riley Moore.

    The engagements are part of ongoing diplomatic and security discussions between both countries as concerns over terrorism and regional instability continue to grow.

  • Gunmen Abduct Two IBEDC Staff on Duty Along Ibadan-Ijebu Ode Road

    The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) has confirmed that two of its staff members were abducted while on duty along the Ibadan-Ijebu Ode Road, raising fresh concerns over security in the area.

    The incident occurred on April 29, 2026, according to a statement issued by the company.

    Workers kidnapped during official duty

    IBEDC said the employees were carrying out their responsibilities when they were whisked away by gunmen on the Oyo State axis of the road.

    The company described the development as deeply troubling.

    “We are deeply concerned about this situation, and our thoughts are with our colleagues and their families at this difficult time,” the statement read.

    Company engages security agencies

    IBEDC said it is working closely with relevant security agencies to secure the safe release of the abducted workers.

    Efforts are ongoing, although no further details have been provided on the progress of the rescue operation.

    Rising insecurity in Oyo axis

    The incident adds to growing concerns over kidnapping in parts of Oyo State and surrounding areas.

    Last month, a young woman identified as Adetutu Aderibigbe was abducted outside her residence in Ibadan.

    Sources said she was taken by gunmen around 6pm in the Bolumole area and driven away in a vehicle without number plates.

    Concerns deepen among residents

    Recent cases of abduction have heightened fears among residents, with calls for stronger security measures across the state.

    The latest attack on utility workers has further underscored the risks faced by individuals carrying out essential services.

  • Oyedepo Recounts Confronting Kidnappers, Tells Members to Give Them His Number

    A viral video has captured Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners Chapel), recounting an encounter with kidnappers during a church service.

    Oyedepo narrates dramatic incident

    In the footage, the cleric told his congregation how one of his pastors was kidnapped and how he intervened after speaking directly with the abductors.

    “Give them the phone… I commanded them to release him within 24 hours,” Oyedepo said.

    He added that the situation became tense after his warning, claiming the kidnappers became unsettled.

    Claims of unusual reaction

    Oyedepo further stated that the abductors reportedly began acting erratically following the threat, while the victim was later instructed to leave the location and return home.

    He also referenced a similar incident involving one of his daughters.

    Message to church members

    Addressing his congregation, the cleric advised members that if they are ever abducted, they should give the kidnappers his phone number.

    The statement has since drawn mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians debating the remarks and their implications.

  • Troops Kill 24 Terrorists, Repel Midnight Attack on Kukareta in Borno

    Troops of Sector 2, Operation HADIN KAI, have neutralised 24 terrorists after repelling a coordinated midnight attack on Kukareta community in Borno State.

    Midnight attack repelled after fierce gun battle

    Security sources said the attack began around midnight and lasted until about 3:00 a.m. on Thursday before troops overpowered the insurgents.

    The troops engaged the attackers in a prolonged firefight, inflicting heavy casualties and forcing them to retreat.

    At least 24 terrorists were confirmed killed during the operation.

    Weapons recovered from insurgents

    Following the encounter, troops recovered a cache of weapons, including 18 AK-47 rifles, three General Purpose Machine Guns, and two PKT anti-aircraft guns.

    Other items recovered include three Rocket Propelled Grenade tubes, two mortar tubes, four hand grenades, and 18 AK-47 magazines.

    A large quantity of 7.62mm ammunition used for anti-aircraft weapons was also recovered at the scene.

    Casualties recorded among troops

    Two soldiers sustained gunshot injuries during the operation and are currently receiving medical treatment.

    Military sources described the operation as a significant success in ongoing counter-insurgency efforts in the North-East.

    Rising attacks across the region

    The development comes amid increased attacks by terrorist groups, including Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, targeting military formations in recent weeks.

    Some of the attacks have resulted in casualties among security personnel, including senior officers.

    Security analysts say the renewed assaults may be aimed at weakening military operations and looting weapons from bases.

    Ongoing operations intensify

    The latest operation adds to recent military actions in Borno, including airstrikes in parts of the Sambisa Forest targeting terrorist hideouts.

    Troops continue to intensify efforts to contain insurgency activities across the region.

    The incident is part of ongoing security developments featured in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.