The Niger Christian Youth Forum (NCYF) has strongly condemned the recent terrorist attacks in Borgu and Agwara local government areas of Niger state which left over 40 people dead, a market razed, and numerous residents abducted.
The group described the assaults as “brutal” and urged federal and state authorities to intensify security measures and rescue efforts.
In a statement released on Tuesday and signed by the Forum’s spokesperson, Joshua Ndace, the Forum expressed deep concern over the coordinated attacks that occurred on Saturday, January 4.
The violence resulted in the burning of Kasuwan Daji market and the kidnapping of women and children, among others. Reports indicate at least 30 to 42 people were killed in the raids, with attackers operating for hours without intervention.
The forum extended condolences to the affected families and reaffirmed solidarity with the Niger State government and residents.
It further highlighted the attacks’ connection to ongoing insecurity, referencing the late 2025 abduction of over 300 pupils and staff from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Agwara LGA, which exposed rural vulnerabilities.
The group called on the Federal Government of Nigeria and Niger State Government to accelerate operations to apprehend and dismantle criminal networks, deploy intelligence-led patrols and additional protection for rural areas, especially forest belts.
It also caller on government to prioritize the rescue and reintegration of abductees, focusing on women and children and enhance community resilience through economic support, trauma counseling, and infrastructure improvements.
“We urge all Nigerians to remain united against terror and criminality,” the statement read, emphasizing the need for collaboration among government, security agencies, traditional leaders, civil society, and communities to end the violence.
The attacks have prompted widespread condemnation, including from Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, who described them as “cruel and nefarious” and vowed joint security efforts to pursue perpetrators.
Former Anambra Governor Peter Obi and APC National Chairman Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda also denounced the violence, calling for an end to the cycle of killings.
A follow-up attack was reported in New Kalle, Borgu LGA, on Monday, January 5, further heightening fears.
Residents in affected areas are fleeing amid concerns of renewed assaults, underscoring the persistent security challenges in northern Nigeria.
Police have confirmed the incidents and deployed joint operations for rescues and investigations. The forum stressed that “no act of terror will break our resolve for peace and security.”
