Nigeria - November 2025

On 26 November, President Bola Tinubu declared a nationwide security emergency after armed groups abducted more than 500 people across several northern states since mid-November. Those abducted include over 300 pupils and teachers seized from a Catholic school in Niger state, some of whom later escaped or were released. The wave of kidnappings also prompted the indefinite closure of over 20,468 schools across seven states—forcing millions of children to abandon education. Tinubu ordered a major security recruitment, redeployment of police units and the deployment of forest guards, while urging Parliament to consider using state police. The escalation unfolded amid mounting U.S. pressure: Washington had designated Nigeria a ‘Country of Particular Concern’. Authorities rejected the claim but intensified engagement with U.S. counterparts. UN officials warned that hundreds remain in captivity and urged decisive action to halt further attacks.

Sources: Premium Times Nigeria, International Crisis Group, Le Monde, United Nations, Amnesty International, Jeune Afrique