In a bid to curb the growing threat of terrorism, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), through the National Defence College (NDC), has intensified efforts to disrupt terrorist financing networks. This move, authorities say, is key to weakening the operations and spread of extremist groups in Nigeria and across the region.
Speaking at the launch of a new course on Countering the Financing of Terrorism and Regional Security on Monday, NDC Commandant Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu underscored the importance of collaboration at both national and regional levels. The course is hosted by the NDC’s Centre for Strategic Research and Studies (CSRS).
Olotu emphasized that terrorism thrives on a hidden and complex financial system, which fuels recruitment, logistics, and operations. He stressed that cutting off these financial lifelines is not merely a legal responsibility, but a vital national security strategy.
“We must adopt a whole-society approach, not just a whole-government one. Everyone—public and private sectors, security agencies, financial institutions—must come together to address this issue,” he said.
The course brings together experts and stakeholders from diverse sectors to develop integrated strategies for countering terrorism financing, especially given the geopolitical, cultural, and religious complexities across West Africa and the Sahel.
The call to disrupt terrorism financing aligns with the warnings of security analysts, who have repeatedly urged the government to sever the financial and arms supply lines of terrorists and bandits.
Terrorist Attacks Leave 12 Vigilantes Dead in Bauchi and Niger States
Meanwhile, fresh violence has erupted in Bauchi and Niger states, where at least 12 vigilantes were killed in separate terrorist attacks.
In Bauchi State, gunmen suspected to be cattle rustlers ambushed and killed over 10 vigilantes in Mansur, Gwana district, Alkaleri Local Government Area, during a patrol on Sunday. They also rustled livestock and reportedly shot civilians trying to escape.
Police spokesperson CSP Ahmed Wakil confirmed the ambush and noted that both vigilantes and some of the attackers were killed in the confrontation. Bodies have since been recovered, and investigations are ongoing.
In Niger State, two vigilantes were killed by bandits in Wamba, Mariga LGA, following reports that around 300 armed men on motorcycles were spotted traversing the Kontagora–Minna highway. The vigilantes attempted to stop their advance but were overpowered.
Local sources believe the heavily armed group originated from Zamfara State and is heading toward forested areas between Mariga and Mashegu. Security forces are reportedly mobilizing to respond.
Governor Bala Mohammed Vows Action After Vigilante Deaths
Reacting to the Bauchi killings, Governor Bala Mohammed condemned the violence and vowed his administration would not relent in protecting lives and property. In a statement, he described the slain vigilantes as heroes who died defending their communities and called on citizens to support security agencies with timely intelligence.
Communal Conflicts Claim Nearly 1,800 Lives Since 2018
In a related development, nearly 1,800 people have died from boundary and communal clashes across Nigeria between January 2018 and August 2025, according to data from media reports and the Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND).
Cross River, Delta, and Bayelsa states have seen the highest numbers of fatalities, mostly due to land disputes. Notable incidents include deadly clashes in Kogi, Benue, and Enugu states, often sparked by unresolved land rights issues.
Security expert Chidi Omeje blamed weak enforcement of the Land Use Act and poor boundary demarcation for fueling these conflicts. He urged the government to prioritize land reforms and proactive conflict resolution strategies.
As of the time of reporting, the National Boundary Commission had yet to respond to inquiries regarding its actions to address the crisis.
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