Here is the revised report on the recent terror attacks in Nigeria. This version is optimized for SEO using Yoast principles, focusing on shorter sentences, clear subheadings, and improved readability.
Recent Terror Attacks in Nigeria: February 2026 Update
Terror attacks in Nigeria have intensified in early February 2026. Jihadist groups are currently expanding beyond their traditional strongholds. Violence is moving from the northeast into the north-central and northwest regions. A recent report by the Anadolu Agency on February 7 highlights this alarming trend.
Anwase Market Attack in Benue State
On February 6 or 7, 2026, attackers stormed the Anwase Market. This market is located in the Kwande Local Government Area of north-central Nigeria. The assault occurred during peak business hours. Gunmen emerged from a nearby mountain and fired into the air to create panic.
Tragically, they killed at least 13 people. The attackers also abducted women and set market stalls on fire. This violence followed a similar attack in the nearby Abande community just two days earlier. That previous incident resulted in at least 17 deaths. Residents are now urging the government to provide stronger security in rural areas.
Massacre in Woro and Nuku Villages
A devastating attack struck Kwara State between February 3 and 4, 2026. Hundreds of militants targeted the rural villages of Woro and Nuku. These villages are situated in the Kaiama Local Government Area.
The death toll was catastrophic. Officials estimate between 162 and 200 people were killed. The assault lasted for several hours and continued overnight. Assailants set homes on fire and mutilated victims. They also abducted dozens of women and children.
Nigerian officials suspect Boko Haram or affiliated terrorist cells. However, some analysts point to Lakurawa. This is a hybrid group linked to Islamic State affiliates. This event is one of the deadliest attacks outside the northeast region in recent years.
Other Concurrent Incidents
Violence also affected Katsina State on February 3, 2026. At least 24 people died in the Doma communities. Reports indicate simultaneous violence occurred across Benue, Katsina, and Kwara around this date. Total deaths exceeded 200 in a single day across these sites.
Meanwhile, conflict persists in the northeast. Factional fighting continues between ISWAP and Boko Haram. These groups also launch occasional attacks on military targets and civilians.
Emerging Patterns and Trends
The terrorism landscape in Nigeria has evolved significantly throughout 2025 and 2026. Several key trends are now visible.
Geographic Expansion
Attacks are spreading southward. Violence was traditionally concentrated in the northeast states like Borno and Yobe. Now, it is reaching north-central and northwest regions. This marks a significant shift in the conflict.
Perpetrators and Tactics
Boko Haram and ISWAP remain the core perpetrators. However, new groups like Lakurawa are emerging. These groups often blend jihadist ideology with criminal banditry. Their primary tactics include mass raids on soft civilian targets. They frequently use firearms, arson, and abductions to enforce their demands.
Rising Violence
There is a sharp rise in civilian-targeted violence. The deadliest incidents often involve mass killings after communities reject extremist demands. Jihadist attacks are currently surging in scale and reach. This is happening despite increased troop deployments and international support.
Here is the summary table comparing the recent terror attacks in Nigeria for quick reference.
| Location | State (Region) | Date | Est. Deaths | Key Details |
| Woro & Nuku Villages | Kwara (North-Central) | Feb 3–4 | 162–200+ | Long-duration assault; homes burned; mass abductions. One of the deadliest recent attacks outside the northeast. |
| Doma Communities | Katsina (North-West) | Feb 3 | 24+ | Simultaneous violence reported alongside Kwara and Benue incidents. |
| Abande Community | Benue (North-Central) | ~Feb 4–5 | 17+ | Preceded the Anwase market attack; included the death of a police officer. |
| Anwase Market | Benue (North-Central) | Feb 6–7 | 13+ | Attack during peak market hours; attackers descended from mountains; stalls set ablaze. |
