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Bandits Launch Deadly Raid In Niger State, Burn Church

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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Armed bandits carried out a brazen attack on communities in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State in the early hours of Sunday, February 1, 2026, setting ablaze a divisional police station and a church building while abducting at least five residents.

According to police sources, the assailants invaded the Agwara community around 3:40 a.m., engaging tactical police teams in a fierce gun battle before overpowering them. The attackers reportedly used explosives to set the police station on fire, destroying the facility.

The gunmen then proceeded to the United Missionary Church of Africa (UMC) in the area, where they set part of the building ablaze. From there, they moved to nearby villages, including Sokonba, a border community with Kabe looting foodstuffs and other valuables along the way.

An elderly woman was killed in Kabe town during the raid, and five other residents were kidnapped before the bandits retreated into nearby forest reserves.

The Niger State Police Command, through its Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the incident, stating that security agencies are actively monitoring the situation and working to rescue the abducted victims. Identities of those kidnapped have not yet been released, and investigations are ongoing.

Reacting to the incident, the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese and Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger State, Most Rev. Bulus Yohanna, appealed to the Federal Government, the Nigerian Army, and relevant security agencies to immediately establish a permanent military formation in Agwara to curb the recurring attacks in the area.

This latest assault comes amid a persistent wave of banditry in Niger State, particularly in rural and border areas like Borgu and Agwara, where armed groups frequently launch raids from forest hideouts.

Recent operations by the military, including a tactical ambush along the Kontagora axis that neutralized several bandits and recovered motorcycles, highlight ongoing efforts to counter the threat.

Local residents have expressed growing fear over the repeated attacks, which have disrupted daily life and raised concerns about the vulnerability of isolated communities.

Reacting to the incident , Murtala Dantoro, son of the late Emir of Borgu, Haliru Dantoro, lamented that repeated terrorist attacks had turned once-peaceful communities into zones of fear and uncertainty.

He said, “Innocent lives are being lost, farmers have abandoned their farmlands, economic activities have paralyzed, and families are forced to flee their ancestry homes in search of safety.”

According to Dantoro, the prevailing security vacuum has emboldened criminals who now operate with little or no resistance, thereby worsening the humanitarian and economic situation in the affected communities.

Authorities have urged calm while assuring that joint security teams are intensifying patrols and pursuit operations to apprehend the perpetrators and secure the release of the captives.

The incident underscores the broader security challenges facing parts of northern Nigeria, where bandit groups continue to carry out killings, abductions, and destruction despite sustained military interventions.

Nigeria’s Data Protection Sector Exceeds N16.2 Billion In Value

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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The Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has announced that the country’s data protection ecosystem is now valued at over N16.2 billion. This growth highlights the rapid expansion of compliance efforts and regulatory supervision in parallel with the country’s digital economy.

The figure was revealed during a recent media training workshop held in Lagos, where the commission reviewed its achievements following the enactment of the Nigeria Data Protection Act in 2023.

Since the legislation took effect, regulators have intensified licensing processes, enforcement activities, and compliance monitoring for both public institutions and private organizations. This reflects increasing attention to the collection, storage, and sharing of personal data.

The NDPC reported that it has licensed 307 Data Protection Compliance Organisations (DPCOs) and registered 38,677 data controllers and processors deemed to be of major importance. This marks a significant increase in regulated entities under the Act.

Additionally, more than 8,155 compliance audit returns have been submitted across the public and private sectors.

The commission has completed 246 investigations into privacy violations nationwide, leading to 11 enforcement actions. These included fines and remediation directives.

Notable cases involve a N766.2 million penalty imposed on MultiChoice Nigeria in July 2025 for unlawful cross-border transfers of subscriber data and other infractions, as well as a N555.8 million fine issued to Fidelity Bank in 2024 for improper data processing and the deployment of non-transparent tracking mechanisms.

These enforcement measures have generated N5.2 billion in compliance-related revenue, which has been remitted to the federal government. The NDPC emphasized that revenue generation is not its primary objective.

The commission further noted that the data protection ecosystem has created over 23,000 jobs, supporting employment growth amid the expansion of Nigeria’s digital economy.

Dr Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the NDPC, who addressed the workshop virtually, stated that the statistics demonstrate a purposeful move toward robust, enforcement-focused regulation.

He stressed that establishing trust through accountability is vital for Nigeria’s goal of achieving a $1 trillion digital economy. He added that effective data protection frameworks are essential for drawing foreign direct investment and enabling international collaborations.

“Enforcement is the backbone of privacy protection. By concluding 246 investigations and applying meaningful consequences, we are protecting citizens and creating the secure environment needed for innovation, foreign investment, and sustainable growth,” Dr Olatunji said.

The NDPC reaffirmed its dedication to broadening compliance oversight across all industries, indicating that regulatory supervision will continue to intensify as the digital economy grows.

These advancements position Nigeria’s data protection framework as a key driver of business confidence, employment opportunities, and broader economic progress. It offers greater privacy safeguards and accountability for both individuals and organizations.

Dangote, NNPC Seal Gas Supply Deals To Boost Refinery Expansion

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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Dangote Industries Limited (DIL) has signed gas supply agreements with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited for three of its major subsidiaries, aiming to secure energy for its growing industrial operations.

The agreements were concluded during the unveiling of the NNPC Gas Master Plan (GMP) 2026 at NNPC Towers in Abuja, according to a statement released on Sunday.

Under the arrangements, Dangote Petroleum Refinery, Dangote Cement Plc, and Dangote Fertiliser FZE expanded their gas sales and purchase agreements (GSPAs) with NNPC subsidiaries Nigerian Gas Marketing Limited and NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company Limited (NGIC).

David Bird, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Petroleum Refinery, signed on behalf of the refinery, while Arvid Pathak, Group Managing Director of Dangote Cement Plc, represented the cement business. Mustapha Matawalle executed the agreement for Dangote Fertiliser FZE.

Dangote Group stated that the gas supply deals will support its Vision 2030 by enhancing production capacity, improving access to cleaner energy, and sustaining ongoing and planned expansion projects across its subsidiaries.

Speaking at the ceremony, Bird said the agreements mark a “key milestone” in the refinery’s growth strategy and noted that they would help secure long-term gas supply to support the expected increase in refining capacity.

Pathak said the deal will reinforce Dangote Cement’s strategic goals by ensuring gas availability for expanded production and promoting the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) as autogas.

For Dangote Fertiliser, the group said the agreement will aid capacity expansion, emphasizing that natural gas remains a vital input in fertiliser manufacturing.

Also addressing the event, Ekperikpe Ekpo, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), described the Gas Master Plan as a shift “from policy formulation to disciplined execution focused on commercial viability and coordination across the sector.”

“Today’s launch is not merely the unveiling of a document; it represents a deliberate shift towards a more integrated, commercially driven, and execution-focused gas sector aligned with Nigeria’s development aspirations,” Ekpo said, calling Nigeria fundamentally “a gas nation.”

He added that the plan’s focus on supply reliability, infrastructure development, domestic and export market flexibility, and strategic partnerships aligns with the federal government’s Decade of Gas initiative.

In his remarks, Bayo Ojulari, Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, said the NGMP 2026 is “an execution-led roadmap designed to unlock Nigeria’s gas potential and position the country as a globally competitive gas hub.”

Ojulari noted that Nigeria holds approximately 210 trillion cubic feet (Tcf) of proven gas reserves, with potential upside of up to 600 Tcf, supported by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and the government’s gas-led energy transition agenda.

“The plan is structured not just to deliver, but to exceed the presidential mandate of increasing national gas production to 10 billion cubic feet per day by 2027 and 12 billion cubic feet per day by 2030, while catalysing over $60 billion in new investments across the oil and gas value chain by 2030,” he said.

He added that the master plan prioritises cost optimisation, operational excellence, and strengthened gas supply to power generation, CNG, LPG, mini-LNG, and key industrial consumers.

FAAC Allocates ₦1.97 Trillion December Revenue To Governments

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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The Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) has allocated ₦1.969 trillion to the Federal Government, states, and local government councils as Federation Account revenue for December 2025.

The committee announced this in a communiqué signed by its Director of Press and Public Relations, Bawa Mokwa, following the FAAC meeting held in Abuja in January 2026.

According to the communiqué, the total distributable revenue included ₦1.084 trillion in statutory revenue, ₦846.507 billion from Value Added Tax (VAT), and ₦38.110 billion from the Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL).

FAAC stated that the total gross revenue available in December 2025 amounted to ₦2.585 trillion.

From this total, ₦104.697 billion was deducted as the cost of collection, while ₦511.585 billion was set aside for transfers, refunds, and savings.

The committee revealed that gross statutory revenue for the month was ₦1.631 trillion, marking a decrease of ₦105.202 billion compared to the ₦1.736 trillion recorded in November 2025.

In contrast, gross VAT revenue surged to ₦913.957 billion in December 2025, rising by ₦350.915 billion from the ₦563.042 billion collected the previous month.

From the total distributable revenue of ₦1.969 trillion, the Federal Government received ₦653.500 billion, state governments ₦706.469 billion, and local government councils ₦513.272 billion.

An additional ₦96.083 billion, representing 13 percent of mineral revenue, was allocated to oil-producing states as derivation revenue.

Out of the ₦1.084 trillion distributable statutory revenue, the Federal Government received ₦520.807 billion, states ₦264.160 billion, and local governments ₦203.656 billion, while ₦96.083 billion was assigned to benefiting states as derivation revenue.

From the ₦846.507 billion distributable VAT revenue, the Federal Government received ₦126.976 billion, states ₦423.254 billion, and local government councils ₦296.277 billion.

The committee also reported that from the ₦38.110 billion EMTL revenue, the Federal Government received ₦5.717 billion, state governments ₦19.055 billion, and local government councils ₦13.338 billion.

FAAC noted that Companies Income Tax, Capital Gains Tax, Stamp Duties, import duties, and VAT recorded significant increases in December 2025, while oil and gas royalties, CET levies, and fees rose modestly.

However, Excise Duty, Petroleum Profit Tax, Hydrocarbon Tax, and EMTL recorded notable declines during the period.

Lagos Assembly Schedules Meeting With Makoko Community Leaders

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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The Lagos State House of Assembly has called on leaders of communities impacted by the Makoko demolition and nearby waterfront settlements for a meeting on Tuesday.

A letter dated January 26, 2026, and signed by the Clerk of the House, Olalekan Onafeko, stated that the meeting was in response to a petition from the communities regarding the demolition and eviction of residents.

The letter confirmed receipt of the petition and scheduled a session with the House Committee on Rules and Business for 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 3, at the Chamber’s Conference Room, Assembly Complex, Alausa, Ikeja.

This planned engagement comes amid increasing tensions in Makoko and neighboring settlements, where residents and civil society groups have accused the government of carrying out demolitions without proper notice, compensation, or resettlement, leaving many families displaced.

The House has requested that the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, direct the Commissioner for Information and Strategy to enhance public awareness and education regarding the ongoing demolition activities in the State.

The Assembly also urged residents to remain calm and act peacefully when voicing their concerns or protesting at the Lagos State House of Assembly, warning against allowing individuals with selfish or ulterior motives to exploit genuine protests and turn them into actions that could disrupt public order.

Top Ten African Strongest Currencies in 2026

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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As 2026 unfolds, Africa’s economic landscape continues to showcase a mix of resilience and challenges, with currency strength serving as a key barometer of macroeconomic stability. While global headwinds—such as commodity price fluctuations, geopolitical tensions, and interest rate shifts by major central banks—continue to influence exchange rates, several African nations have managed to maintain relatively strong currencies through sound fiscal policies, diversified economies, and strategic resource management.

These stronger currencies help reduce import costs for essential goods, enhance investor confidence, and provide buffers against external shocks.

However, the continent’s overall picture remains varied, with several countries grappling with currency depreciation amid inflationary pressures, structural weaknesses, and political instability.

The Weakest Currencies in Africa

Africa’s weakest currencies continue to face significant headwinds, often exacerbated by high inflation, political instability, limited industrial capacity, and reliance on commodity exports. Many of these currencies require thousands of units to exchange for a single US dollar, driving up import costs and placing pressure on domestic economies.

Based on exchange rates from early 2026, here are the ten weakest African currencies:

  1. São Tomé and Príncipe Dobra (STN) – Trading at approximately 22,282 per USD, this remains the continent’s weakest currency due to limited economic diversification and heavy reliance on imports.
  2. Sierra Leonean Leone (SLL) – At around 20,970 per USD, persistent inflation and slow post-crisis recovery continue to undermine its strength.
  3. Guinean Franc (GNF) – Exchanging at about 8,700 per USD, political transitions and mining sector volatility contribute to its weakness.
  4. Malagasy Ariary (MGA) – Around 4,483 per USD, affected by environmental challenges and slow industrial growth in Madagascar.
  5. Ugandan Shilling (UGX) – At approximately 3,541 per USD, inflationary pressures and rising external debt weigh on the currency.
  6. Burundian Franc (BIF) – Valued at about 2,938 per USD, prolonged political instability continues to affect economic performance.
  7. Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) – Trading near 2,548 per USD, recent depreciation is linked to global commodity shifts and domestic fiscal pressures.
  8. Congolese Franc (CDF) – Approximately 2,300 per USD, with conflict and resource mismanagement in the Democratic Republic of Congo sustaining weakness.
  9. Malawian Kwacha (MWK) – Around 1,700 per USD, impacted by agricultural vulnerabilities and aid dependence.
  10. Rwandan Franc (RWF) – At about 1,450 per USD, despite Rwanda’s growth narrative, inflation and trade imbalances keep it among the weaker African currencies.

These currencies highlight the urgent need for structural reforms, inflation control, and reserve accumulation to stabilize exchange rates.

Strongest Currencies in Africa

Africa’s strongest currencies in 2026 are supported by a combination of oil revenues, tourism earnings, manufacturing exports, and prudent monetary management.

These countries often benefit from relatively stable governance and strong international partnerships, helping their currencies remain resilient despite broader pressures facing emerging markets.

Their currencies trade at lower nominal rates against the US dollar, reducing import costs and enhancing investor appeal.

  1. Tunisian Dinar (TND) – Approximately 2.86 TND per USD
    Tunisia’s dinar tops the list, supported by strict exchange controls and a diversified economy spanning manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism.Despite political challenges, the Central Bank of Tunisia has maintained relatively low inflation and steady foreign reserves, helping keep import costs manageable and supporting domestic consumption.
  2. Libyan Dinar (LYD) – Approximately 6.31 LYD per USD
    Libya’s dinar ranks second, driven largely by vast oil reserves that generate significant foreign exchange earnings.However, recent devaluations—including a reported 14.7% adjustment in mid-January 2026—underscore ongoing vulnerabilities, even as oil revenues provide a critical anchor.
  3. Moroccan Dirham (MAD) – Approximately 9.01 MAD per USD
    Morocco’s dirham benefits from economic diversification into renewable energy, manufacturing, and the automotive sector, alongside stable macroeconomic management.Strong trade ties with Europe and steady foreign investment inflows have reinforced its resilience.
  4. Ghanaian Cedi (GHS) – About 10.96 GHS per USD
    Ghana’s cedi has shown relative improvement following monetary reforms and strong cocoa export earnings.Central bank interventions have helped curb inflation, restoring some investor confidence.
  5. Botswana Pula (BWP) – Approximately 13.65 BWP per USD
    Supported by diamond revenues and low public debt, Botswana’s pula reflects fiscal discipline and stable governance.Investment-grade credit ratings continue to bolster confidence in the currency.
  6. Seychelles Rupee (SCR) – Around 14.99 SCR per USD
    Tourism and fisheries remain key drivers, with post-pandemic recovery strengthening foreign exchange inflows.A focus on sustainability has helped maintain currency stability.
  7. Eritrean Nakfa (ERN) – Fixed at 15.00 ERN per USD
    Pegged to the US dollar, the nakfa offers predictability, though limited transparency and economic isolation pose long-term risks.
  8. Swazi Lilangeni (SZL) – Approximately 16.12 SZL per USD
    Pegged to the South African rand, the lilangeni reflects regional economic trends and benefits from sugar and textile exports.
  9. South African Rand (ZAR) – Around 16.02 ZAR per USD
    Africa’s most traded currency, the rand is supported by mineral exports such as gold and platinum, despite domestic economic challenges.
  10. Namibian Dollar (NAD) – Approximately 16.02 NAD per USD
    Pegged one-to-one with the rand, Namibia’s dollar benefits from uranium and diamond exports, alongside relatively stable governance.

These currencies represent pockets of stability across the continent, often anchored by natural resources or disciplined economic policies, and remain attractive for foreign direct investment and trade.

Currency Performance Over the Last Five Years (2021–2026)

Over the past five years, Africa’s strongest currencies have followed varied trajectories amid global shocks such as the COVID-19 pandemic, commodity price cycles, and global interest rate hikes.

  • Tunisian Dinar (TND): Relatively stable, fluctuating between 2.7–3.1 per USD.
  • Libyan Dinar (LYD): Volatile, weakening from around 4.5 in 2021 to about 6.3 in 2026.
  • Moroccan Dirham (MAD): Stable within the 8.9–9.5 range.
  • Ghanaian Cedi (GHS): Significant depreciation from 5.92 in 2021 to 10.96 in 2026.
  • Botswana Pula (BWP): Gradual weakening from 11.0 to 13.65.
  • Seychelles Rupee (SCR): Volatile but stabilizing post-pandemic.
  • Eritrean Nakfa (ERN): Fixed at 15 per USD throughout.
  • Swazi Lilangeni (SZL): Depreciated alongside the rand.
  • South African Rand (ZAR): Highly volatile, recovering to around 16 by 2026.
  • Namibian Dollar (NAD): Closely mirrored rand movements.

Overall, North African currencies such as the TND and MAD have remained relatively stable, while others—particularly the GHS—have experienced notable depreciation. Sustained diversification, inflation control, and policy discipline will remain crucial for long-term currency strength.

AGF Fagbemi Leads Prosecution Of Yelwata Massacre Suspects

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, is spearheading the prosecution of nine suspects linked to the Yelwata killings in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.

The suspects are facing a 57-count charge of terrorism, accused of planning and executing attacks in Yelwata that resulted in the alleged killing of 150 people and the destruction of properties.

They are also alleged to have provided resources and sought support to facilitate the attacks.

The suspects were arraigned before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja, where they are currently entering their plea.

All nine defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges leveled against them by the Federal Government.

During proceedings, counsel for the defendants sought to make an oral application for bail.

However, the court refused, insisting that a formal bail application be filed.

The hearing for the bail application has been scheduled for February 26, 2026. Meanwhile, the suspects are to remain in custody at Kuje Correctional Centre pending the determination of the bail application.

The prosecution of the defendants is being led by AGF Lateef Fagbemi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, highlighting the federal government’s commitment to bringing those responsible for the tragic incident to justice.

APC Denies Forcing Civil Servants To Join Party

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed claims by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) that civil servants are being pressured to take part in its ongoing electronic membership registration, insisting that participation is completely voluntary.

APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, stated on Monday that the allegations are “false and baseless,” describing them as part of a deliberate effort to undermine a successful digital registration campaign.

He emphasized that no government employee has been forced to enroll in the ruling party.

“The phenomenal turnout of Nigerians, including civil servants who voluntarily registered, proves that ADC’s coercion narrative is unfounded,” Morka said.

This statement comes after the disclosure last Friday that the e-registration, which began in January, has already attracted over seven million members nationwide, with the party aiming to reach an additional five million before the exercise concludes.

The registration period, initially scheduled to end on January 31, was extended to February 8, 2026, due to what the party described as overwhelming public interest.

Morka also noted that the ADC had previously circulated a fake “APC membership slip” linking a notorious terrorist to the party, calling the act reckless and dangerous.

“The success of this exercise reflects growing confidence in the APC and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Morka said, adding that portraying civil servants as victims of intimidation undermines their professionalism and constitutional rights.

The APC reiterated its commitment to internal democracy, digital innovation, and grassroots empowerment, insisting that the voluntary e-registration is a key step in modernizing party membership and enhancing political participation nationwide.

World Bank Visits Nigeria To Discuss Jobs, Investment, And Growth

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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The Managing Director of Operations at the World Bank, Anna Bjerde, is visiting Nigeria for three days to strengthen engagement on accelerating economic growth and creating jobs.

In a statement released on Sunday, the World Bank said the visit, set to begin on February 1, 2026, will explore how the World Bank Group can best support Nigeria’s reform agenda, with consultations feeding into its upcoming Country Partnership Framework for Nigeria.

The Bank noted that the new strategy prioritises jobs, energy access, and private-sector-led growth as central to Nigeria’s development objectives. Discussions during the visit will focus on gathering feedback to improve the enabling environment, unlock human capital, enhance resilience, and mobilise private investment.

“World Bank Managing Director of Operations Anna Bjerde will begin a three-day visit to Nigeria on February 1, 2026, to discuss how the World Bank Group can best support the country’s efforts to accelerate growth and job creation.

“During the visit, Ms Bjerde will meet with senior government officials, private sector leaders, and civil society organisations as part of consultations on the World Bank Group’s upcoming Country Partnership Framework for Nigeria. The new strategy places jobs, energy access, and private sector-led growth at the centre of Nigeria’s development agenda.

“The consultations will seek feedback on four areas: improving the enabling environment, unleashing human capital, building resilience, and maximising private capital,” the statement read.

The statement added that the visit will also highlight Nigeria’s role in advancing global development efforts, including Mission 300, a joint World Bank Group and African Development Bank initiative aimed at connecting 300 million Africans to electricity by 2030.

Under this programme, Nigeria’s Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up initiative is expected to provide household energy access to 17.5 million people via mini-grids and solar home systems.

The Bank said the discussions will also cover progress in digital connectivity, power sector reforms, social protection, human capital outcomes, and AgriConnect, an initiative designed to make smallholder farming a commercially viable source of jobs, higher incomes, and food security.

During her visit, Bjerde is scheduled to meet Vice President Kashim Shettima; the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; the Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Olayemi Cardoso; and the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

She will be accompanied by Ousmane Diagana, Vice President for Western and Central Africa at the World Bank; Ethiopis Tafara, Vice President for Africa at the International Finance Corporation; and Ed Mountfield, Vice President at the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency.

The World Bank noted that its active portfolio in Nigeria exceeds $16 billion, spanning education, health, social protection, energy, and infrastructure, in addition to policy advisory and institutional strengthening.

It added that the IFC’s investment portfolio in Nigeria is over $1.2 billion, focusing on diversified growth, inclusion, sustainability, and job creation, especially in energy, finance, agribusiness, and manufacturing.

As of June 30, 2025, Nigeria’s external debt stood at $46.98 billion, according to the Debt Management Office. The World Bank Group remains the country’s largest single creditor, accounting for $19.39 billion of the total, including $18.04 billion from the IDA and $1.35 billion from the IBRD.

This amounts to 41.3 per cent of Nigeria’s external debt, highlighting the Bank’s leading role in financing the country’s development projects.

Kaduna Abduction: 80 Worshippers Return Home Weeks After Attack

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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0

Eighty worshippers who escaped being kidnapped during a bandit attack on Kurmin Wali community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State have returned to their homes.

Several others are still in captivity, as security agencies continue operations aimed at rescuing the abducted victims.

The village head, Ishaku Danazumi, confirmed the development, stating that the worshippers fled after gunmen invaded the community during a church service on January 18, 2026, abducting many people while others escaped to safety.

He said the returnees came back almost two weeks after the incident and were found to be in good condition.

According to Danazumi, although 80 worshippers avoided abduction, 86 others are still being held by the bandits.

Security sources said the return of the displaced residents followed intensified military offensives against bandit camps in Kajuru and adjoining forest areas.

The Kaduna State Police Command spokesperson, Mansir Hassan, disclosed that the Divisional Police Officer in Kajuru visited the community, met the victims, and carried out profiling and debriefing.

Last month, more than 100 people were abducted when gunmen attacked three churches in the area.

The incident was initially denied by authorities after the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, in the state first reported it.

Days later, the Nigeria Police Force spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed that the incident “did happen”.

Governor Uba Sani later visited Kurmin Wali community and assured residents that efforts were ongoing to secure the release of those abducted.

“The people of Kurmin Wali, just like other communities in Kaduna State, have absolute trust and belief in our government. Because they know we are running an inclusive government.

“We protect the lives of everyone, irrespective of religious or ethnic affiliation. We are one in Kaduna State. And I’m happy the people of Kurmin Wali have understood that clearly.

“That is the reason why when we came in here, you can see how they received us warmly, even those that are mourning, even those that are grieving, they are with the government.”

United States authorities and several advocacy groups have also appealed to the government and security agencies to ensure the safe return of the remaining abductees.

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