New Terror Group Emerges in Northwestern Nigeria Amid Border Security Challenges

The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the emergence of a new terrorist group called ‘Lukarawas’ in northwestern Nigeria. 

General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, announced this development during a media briefing in Abuja on Thursday, November 7.

General Buba explained that the new terror group originated from the Republic of Niger following the recent coup that disrupted military cooperation between Nigeria and Niger. This breakdown allowed the terrorists to move into northern Sokoto and Kebbi states from areas near the Niger Republic and Mali.

Prior to the coup, both countries conducted joint operations along their shared border, successfully keeping these threats at bay. 

However, Buba noted that the absence of coordinated security efforts has enabled the terrorists to exploit difficult terrains and expand into remote areas of northwestern Nigeria, aiming to spread their ideology.

He pointed out that some local communities initially welcomed the group, misunderstanding their intentions and failing to report the group’s movements to security agencies. 

General Buba assured the public that Nigerian forces are conducting sustained intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations to counter the group’s activities.

"The group continues to take advantage of the vast, under-governed areas to evade security forces and disturb local communities.

Buba stated that Nigerian troops are actively pursuing and neutralizing the threat posed by this new terror group.