Communities in Borgu Emirate and Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State are facing an escalating security crisis as armed groups intensify coordinated attacks across the region. What was once described as banditry has evolved into organised terrorism, with assailants operating from forest corridors and the Kainji National Park along the borders of Kwara State and the Republic of Benin.
From Papiri to Wawa and Babanna, attackers have targeted farms, schools, markets, churches, and security formations, retreating into forest hideouts after each assault. On 21 November 2025, suspected terrorists stormed St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, abducting students and staff in an incident that drew national and international attention. Subsequent attacks, including killings in Kasuwan Daji and Wawa, have left dozens dead. In January 2026 alone, seven youths were killed in Wawa, while on 1 February 2026, assailants burned a church and police station in Agwara, reportedly using dynamite.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago visited affected communities in November 2025 and January 2026, expressing condolences and pledging stronger security measures. However, residents criticised the visits as symbolic, alleging that attacks continued unabated. The Commissioner of Police confirmed reinforcements and the establishment of a temporary operational base, vowing sustained tactical presence.
Prominent voices, including Bishop Bulus Yohanna and Dr. Murtala Haliru Dantoro, have called for urgent federal intervention. They advocate clearing criminal elements from Kainji National Park, establishing permanent military deployment, and adopting intelligence-driven, inter-agency operations. Proposals also include converting vast idle parkland into agricultural initiatives to reduce poverty and limit local collaboration with armed groups.
With memories of past warnings about insurgent expansion in Niger State, residents argue that only decisive federal action can reclaim the forests and restore lasting peace to Borgu Emirate.
