The Nigerian Presidency says terror-related deaths have fallen by 81% since 2015, with 124 terrorists convicted and over 13,000 neutralised in ongoing counter-terrorism operations, reaffirming President Tinubu’s commitment to national security
Presidency Reports 81% Drop in Terror Deaths, 124 Terrorists Convicted Since 2024
The Presidency on Sunday released a detailed update on Nigeria’s counter-terrorism operations, revealing a sharp decline in terror-related deaths and dozens of successful prosecutions as part of ongoing national security reforms.
The statement, shared via the Presidency’s verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, @NGRPresident, said that the latest figures reflect President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “non-negotiable stance” on securing the country.
According to the update, terror-related deaths have dropped by 81% compared to 2015 levels, while over 124 terrorists and insurgents have been convicted since 2024.
“The security of Nigeria is non-negotiable,” the statement read, noting that enhanced inter-agency coordination has led to more efficient intelligence sharing, faster prosecutions, and stronger field operations across conflict zones.
The update came amid renewed diplomatic tension following remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who accused Nigeria of genocide against Christians and designated the country a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) — a move that triggered threats of sanctions and even possible U.S. military intervention.
The Federal Government has firmly rejected the allegation, describing it as “false and misleading.” It insists that Nigeria’s decade-long crisis is rooted in terrorism, banditry, and communal violence, not religious persecution.
“The security challenges in Nigeria have affected all regions and faiths. The government remains committed to protecting all citizens equally,” the statement reiterated, appealing to global partners, including Washington, for continued cooperation in dismantling terror networks.
According to the Presidency, since 2024, Nigerian security agencies have “vigorously pursued, arrested, eliminated or successfully convicted extremists” responsible for some of the country’s deadliest attacks.
Among those currently on trial are leaders of the Ansaru terror group, suspects linked to the 2022 Owo Church massacre, and perpetrators of the Yelwata reprisal killings in Benue State.
In the same period, more than 13,000 terrorists were neutralised, while over 124,000 fighters and their dependents surrendered to authorities, a milestone attributed to intensified joint military operations and peace outreach programmes.
The Presidency also disclosed that over 2.1 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) have now returned to their home communities. Many of these areas, it said, are undergoing reconstruction and resettlement under a new government initiative.
The Resettlement Scheme for Persons Impacted by Conflict, launched under Tinubu’s administration, aims to rehabilitate displaced citizens, rebuild destroyed settlements, and restore livelihoods disrupted by terrorism and violence.
The update outlined key security reforms that have strengthened Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, including:
- Joint military task forces and permanent operations in high-risk zones
- Reinforced border security with regional partners
- Expanded intelligence cooperation with foreign allies
- Increased compensation and rehabilitation programmes for victims of terror
“The Nigerian government’s counter-terrorism strategy is achieving measurable results,” the Presidency stated, crediting inter-agency collaboration and community engagement for the sustained improvements.
Despite the progress, the government emphasised that international cooperation remains vital to completely dismantle transnational terror networks operating across the Sahel and West Africa.
Reaffirming the administration’s security priorities, the Presidency noted that the Tinubu government would continue to strengthen its counter-terrorism framework and ensure the safety of every Nigerian.
“We are winning the war against terror,” the statement concluded. “But to sustain peace and stability, the partnership of our global allies remains indispensable.” Read More
