Echotitbits – Nigeria News

Tag: Terrorism

  • International Tensions Rise as China Rejects Mining-Linked Terror Funding Claims

    International Tensions Rise as China Rejects Mining-Linked Terror Funding Claims

    According to Premium Times, the Chinese government has officially rejected allegations made by US lawmakers regarding illegal mining and terrorism financing in Nigeria. The rebuttal comes after a report suggested that some Chinese-owned mining operations in Northern Nigeria were providing financial support to insurgent groups to secure access to mineral-rich lands.

    In an update published by the same outlet, the Chinese embassy in Abuja described the claims as “baseless” and “politically motivated.” They maintained that Chinese companies operate within the legal framework of Nigerian law and contribute significantly to the country’s industrial growth and infrastructure development.

    The dispute has placed the Nigerian government in a delicate diplomatic position, as both the US and China are key economic and security partners. Meanwhile, the Federal Government has vowed to intensify its crackdown on all forms of illegal mining, regardless of the nationality of the firms involved, to protect national security.

    The Nation and Daily Post reported on the brewing diplomatic row. The Nation quoted a diplomatic source saying, “Nigeria must verify these claims independently to avoid being a pawn in global power play,” while Daily Post noted that “security agencies have already arrested several foreign nationals in connection with illicit mining.”

    Echotitbits take: The “resource curse” is taking a new dimension in Nigeria with these international allegations. If proven, the link between mining and terror could lead to heavy sanctions. Nigeria needs to urgently formalize its artisanal mining sector to prevent it from becoming a slush fund for insurgents.

    Source: Vanguard – https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/02/china-denies-us-claims-of-illegal-mining-terror-funding-in-nigeria/, February 13, 2026

    Photo credit: Vanguard

  • President Tinubu Deploys Army Battalion to Kwara Following Deadly Terror Attack

    President Tinubu Deploys Army Battalion to Kwara Following Deadly Terror Attack

    Reporting by Premium Times indicates that President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate deployment of an army battalion to Woro village in the Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State. The directive follows a devastating overnight attack by Boko Haram terrorists, reportedly under the command of Mallam Sadiku, which resulted in scores of fatalities. The Presidency confirmed that the new military command will spearhead “Operation Savannah Shield” to secure the border communities and prevent further incursions from the nearby Kainji forest reserve.

    The state government initially placed the death toll at 75, while the Red Cross reported as many as 162 confirmed deaths by Wednesday evening. Residents revealed that the terrorists invaded the community around 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, continuing their assault into the early hours of Wednesday. The victims were allegedly targeted for refusing to subscribe to extremist ideologies or be conscripted into the group’s ranks.

    The Daily Trust and Channels TV have also provided extensive coverage of the massacre. Daily Trust quoted a local survivor who stated, “the attackers came in large numbers and showed no mercy to those who stood their ground.” Channels TV reported that “security forces have begun a massive manhunt in the Kainji forest reserve,” with a military source confirming that “no stone will be left unturned in neutralizing the Sadiku-led faction.”

    Echotitbits take:

    The relocation of Boko Haram elements to the North-Central axis (Kwara/Niger borders) represents a dangerous geographical shift in the insurgency. While the deployment of a full battalion is a necessary reactive measure, the long-term security of the Savannah belt will depend on intelligence-led operations within the Kainji National Park. This development may force a redirection of security spending in the 2026 supplementary budget.

    Source: DailySabah – https://www.dailysabah.com/world/africa/nigeria-deploys-military-after-latest-massacre-kills-at-least-162, February 5, 2026

    Photo credit: DailySabah

  • Federal Government Moves to Disrupt Terrorist Bomb-Making Networks

    Federal Government Moves to Disrupt Terrorist Bomb-Making Networks

    In a security update published by The Punch, the Nigerian government has launched a specialized operation to dismantle the supply chains used by terrorists to manufacture Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). The initiative focuses on tracking and restricting the flow of explosive materials, chemicals, and electronic components frequently intercepted in conflict zones. This follows a recent Boko Haram attack in Borno State that claimed the lives of five soldiers and 15 civilians, underscoring the urgent need for a more proactive counter-IED strategy.

    Security agencies have been directed to tighten surveillance at borders and monitor the sale of dual-use chemicals in the open market. The National Security Adviser’s office is coordinating with industrial chemical importers to ensure that materials meant for manufacturing and mining do not end up in the hands of insurgents. The government believes that by “choking” the supply of bomb-making materials, they can significantly reduce the lethality of terrorist operations.

    The operation was also validated by Daily Post and Premium Times. Daily Post reported that “new checkpoints are being established specifically to inspect chemical shipments,” while Premium Times noted that “intelligence sharing with neighboring countries has been intensified to track cross-border smuggling.”

    Echotitbits take:

    Choking the supply chain is a smarter long-term strategy than just kinetic warfare. However, the challenge will be doing this without hurting legitimate businesses in the mining and construction sectors that rely on these chemicals. Watch for new licensing requirements for chemical distributors.

    Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/fg-to-disrupt-terrorists-bomb-making-supply-chains/, January 31, 2026

    Photo credit: Adobe Stock

  • Troops Neutralize 20 Terrorists in Fierce Northern Encounter

    Troops Neutralize 20 Terrorists in Fierce Northern Encounter

    Troops Neutralize 20 Terrorists in Fierce Northern Encounter

    Troops say they killed 20 terrorists during a clearance operation in the North-West, though several soldiers were also lost in the engagement.

    Further reporting across multiple outlets indicates the development is drawing heightened attention, with stakeholders watching for next steps from relevant authorities and institutions.

    Echotitbits take: While the military is scoring tactical wins, the loss of personnel remains a heavy burden. The focus must now shift from clearing forests to holding the liberated territories to prevent the ‘recycled’ presence of bandits.

    Source: ThisDay – https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/01/21/troops-eliminate-20-terrorists-as-soldiers-pay-supreme-price-during-fierce-encounter/ (2026-01-21)

    Photo credit: ThisDay

    2026-01-21 16:00:00

     

     

  • Trump Warns of Persistent Military Action Over Persecution Concerns

    Trump Warns of Persistent Military Action Over Persecution Concerns

    Reporting by Daily Post indicates US President Donald Trump warned that further US military action could occur within Nigerian borders if violence against Christian communities persists, suggesting a shift from one-off operations to sustained action.

    The comments followed a controversial US strike on Christmas Day 2025, which US officials reportedly framed as targeting militants. Trump’s more recent remarks emphasized religious protection, raising diplomatic sensitivity around sovereignty and conflict drivers.

    Trump also acknowledged that Muslims are victims of violence but argued the scale of attacks justifies intervention. Nigerian officials have emphasized sovereignty in past statements, and observers expect diplomatic engagement over the framing and terms of any cooperation.

    BusinessDay (citing the New York Times) and The Guardian also reported concerns that religious framing could worsen tensions rather than reduce violence.

    Echotitbits take: Nigeria needs security cooperation, but rhetoric matters. A religiously framed intervention could inflame local dynamics and complicate alliances—watch for official diplomatic responses and clarifications.

    Source: Reuters – https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/trump-says-there-could-be-more-us-strikes-nigeria-new-york-times-reports-2026-01-08/ 2026-01-09

    Photo Credit: Reuters

  • Questions Grow Over Civilian Impact and Strategy After Reported US Airstrikes in Sokoto

    Questions Grow Over Civilian Impact and Strategy After Reported US Airstrikes in Sokoto

    As documented by The Guardian, concerns are being raised about the long-term impact of reported U.S. airstrikes targeting the ‘Lakurawa’ insurgent group in Sokoto State.

    While the strikes were said to have hit militant targets, local accounts have raised questions about debris and potential effects on civilian assets such as farmlands.

    Analysts say airpower can degrade leadership but must be matched with coordinated ground operations to prevent regrouping.

    **Echotitbits take:** Foreign strikes are tactically useful but politically risky if communities feel harmed or unheard. Watch for follow-up security operations, transparent damage assessments, and local engagement to avoid fresh grievances.
    Source: The Guardian Nigeria – https://guardian.ng/news/sokoto-airstrikes-nigerias-diplomatic-appeals-fall-on-deaf-ears-as-us-clings-to-christian-genocide-narrative/ 2026-01-08

    Photo Credit: The Guardian Nigeria

  • UN Urges Nigeria to Strengthen Protection for Students and Schools Amid Insecurity

    UN Urges Nigeria to Strengthen Protection for Students and Schools Amid Insecurity

    As documented by The Punch, the United Nations has called on Nigeria to step up measures to protect students and educational institutions from persistent security threats.

    The UN stressed that schools must remain safe zones and urged stronger implementation of the Safe Schools Initiative, including physical protection and surveillance where needed.

    The advisory comes amid continuing attacks and displacement in parts of the country, with calls for quicker de-escalation and better protection for civilians.

    **Echotitbits take:** The security of schools is foundational—loss of education today fuels instability tomorrow. Watch for any concrete rollout of dedicated campus or school protection units and measurable funding for the Safe Schools Initiative.
    Source: The Punch — https://www.google.com/amp/s/punchng.com/terrorism-un-urges-nigeria-to-protect-civilians-schools/ 2026-01-08

    Photo Credit: The Punch

  • Borno Police Say 2,610 Suspects Arrested in Wide Crime Sweep, Hundreds Convicted

    Borno Police Say 2,610 Suspects Arrested in Wide Crime Sweep, Hundreds Convicted

    Figures cited by The Guardian show the Borno State Police Command said it arrested 2,610 suspects for various offences over the period under review, including cases linked to gender-based violence and armed robbery.

    Police officials also reported recoveries of arms, vehicles and drugs, adding that a large number of cases have already been prosecuted to conclusion with convictions.

    The command attributed the outcomes to intelligence-led policing and community support, as the state remains under security pressure from insurgency and cross-border crime.

    **Echotitbits take:** High arrest and conviction figures signal more assertive policing, but they also underline the scale of criminality in the region. Watch for stronger joint operations and border security coordination to keep networks from regenerating.
    Source: The Guardian Nigeria — https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/police-arrest-2610-suspects-recover-arms-cash-in-borno/ 2026-01-08

    Photo Credit: Guardian Nigeria

  • Army chief vows to contain terrorism as calls grow for state policing and forest guards

    Army chief vows to contain terrorism as calls grow for state policing and forest guards

    In an update published by The Guardian Nigeria, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, says the Army is committed to containing the terror threat while reviewing doctrine and training for 2026 operations.

    The remarks were delivered around the Army’s doctrine and training conference, framed as an annual reset to adapt to a more complex security environment.

    Alongside the military messaging, a public-policy think tank urged deeper reforms, arguing lasting results require reclaiming ungoverned spaces through state policing and institutional forest guards.

    The broader signal is that Abuja’s security conversation is moving beyond deployments to governance design—who polices what, how forests are secured, and how accountability is shared.

    Vanguard separately reported the COAS “promises enhanced security” during engagements in Niger State. ThisDay also carried the operational push, reporting the Army would “deploy more troops… to crush terrorist attacks.”

    Echotitbits take: The test is coordination—intelligence fusion, forest control, and prosecution pipelines. Watch whether state-level security structures gain clear legal backing or remain ad-hoc.

    Source: Punch – https://punchng.com/army-will-curb-terrorists-attacks-in-niger-nationwide-coas/ January 7, 2026
    Punch Nigeria January 7, 2026

    Photo Credit: Punch

  • Troops arrest eight suspects tied to Gamboru market mosque suicide bombing network

    Troops arrest eight suspects tied to Gamboru market mosque suicide bombing network

    According to ThisDay, troops of Operation Hadin Kai arrested eight suspected terrorists linked to the suicide bombing at the Gamboru market mosque, describing the suspects as part of the network behind the attack.

    The report says two of those held are described as key facilitators, with the arrests following weeks of intelligence work and surveillance that led to targeted operations.

    Recovered items listed include cash, phones, IDs, ATM cards, and jewelry, with forensic examination expected to support ongoing investigations.

    The military says the suspects remain in custody for interrogation and intelligence extraction, with eventual handover for further investigation.

    BusinessDay also reported the Army “dismantled [a] suicide bombing network” tied to the Gamboru incident. Leadership echoed the same development, reporting troops “arrest 8 terrorists linked to Gamboru market mosque suicide bombing.”

    Echotitbits take: The key is prosecution quality. Track whether suspects are arraigned publicly and whether evidence handling and inter-agency coordination hold up in court.

    Source: ThisDayLive – https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/01/07/troops-arrest-eight-terrorists-linked-to-gamboru-market-mosque-suicide-bombing/  January 7, 2026
    ThisDayLive January 7, 2026

    Photo Credit: ThisDayLive