Nigeria is the fourth most terrified nation in the world, which has caused a great deal of indignation and worry.
According to the Global Terrorism Index, GTI 2026 study, there were 171 attacks and 750 fatalities in Nigeria in 2025, a 43% increase in terrorist activities.
Nigeria was ranked sixth in the world in 2024, which is a considerable improvement from the current status.
According to the research, terrorist organizations like Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province, or ISWAP, were responsible for 80% of all terrorism-related deaths in the nation in 2025.
With 67% of attacks and 72% of fatalities, Borno and other northeastern states continue to be the hub of extremist violence in Nigeria.
As the daring terrorists continue to operate, especially in the North, the report has caused tangible stress in many regions of the nation.
Just three months into 2026, there have reportedly been over 300 dead from over 136 attacks by terrorists, bandits, suspected Fulani herders, and other non-state actors.
With 217 fatalities, the North-West geopolitical zone is reportedly the most severely affected, followed by the North-Central with more than 100 fatalities.
Fear and anger trail ranking
Some Nigerians are terrified of the uncertainties surrounding the country’s future, while others blame the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government for the worsening security situation.
In response to the study, some prominent opposition figures criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for failing to resolve the security issues that have persisted for ten years.
The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential contender, Mr. Peter Obi, claims that the new ranking “is a painful indictment of failed leadership.”
Obi bemoaned the fact that Nigeria is seeing the reverse trend from other nations in the world that are making headway in reducing or eliminating terrorism.
Nigeria is experiencing an increase in terrorism, whilst many other nations are witnessing a decrease.
“Misplaced priorities, poor governance, corruption, a lack of rule of law, and the persistent neglect of security, which is the government’s most fundamental duty, are the direct causes of this trend,” he stated.
In a same vein, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) claimed that the report was unpleasant and accused Tinubu’s government of ignoring the suffering of Nigerians.
Although Nigerians are not shocked by this story, it is particularly upsetting that individuals who were elected, appointed, and swore to protect our nation are enjoying themselves in a distant country while terrorists are killing and abducting residents on a regular basis.
In a statement, the party’s Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, stated, “Under President Tinubu’s watch, insecurity has not just become very lucrative, it has attained a trillion-naira economy status.”
Dr. Lucius Hibila, a prominent member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna State, also voiced concern on Sunday that terrorism in Nigeria might not soon come to an end.
“This problem is getting terrifying,” he declared. The more bad news you receive, the more you believe that terrorism is going to end. According to the study, not even US intervention has produced any outcomes.
“And as we speak, terrorists continue to operate throughout the country’s northern regions, killing innocent people every day for no apparent cause.
“Every government that takes office will pledge to put a stop to this situation, but by the end of their term, it will only get worse. Are some nations attempting to eradicate us from the planet’s surface?
“After so many years, why can’t we put an end to this security crisis? We ought to start exploring outside the nation, in my opinion. Do they import the combatants?
“Even though our forces have been eliminating them, their numbers are growing daily. They are not Nigerians. Let’s even examine it critically. About 80 terrorists were slain in Borno State a few days ago.
Have you heard any family members lamenting the absence of their son? Where are they from and do they not have parents? We must address the underlying cause of this. We are addressing symptoms in a manner similar to a patient.
“The symptoms will eventually recur if the underlying cause is not addressed. We ought to address the underlying issue. Do certain people oppose us or are we at war with ourselves? As a country, this will make things very simple.
The president is silent.
The presidency has yet to accept or revoke the ranking, even after the study was released a few days ago.
Our correspondent called Sunday Dare, President Bola Tinubu’s Special Advisor on Media and Public Communications, but he was unable to respond.
Nonetheless, President Tinubu stated in Lagos on Sunday that his government will step up efforts to address the issues of insecurity in different regions of the nation, guaranteeing that the security and welfare of the populace would be prioritized at the talks in the UK.
President Tinubu said he has followed up with French President Emmanuel Macron over help for contemporary security initiatives while hosting Vice President Kashim Shettima and twenty-three governors at his Lagos residence for Eid-el-Fitr.
“The number and your presence here today demonstrate your genuineness, dedication, and appreciation of friendship and unity.
“The challenge of national insecurity is the next stage of our struggle, and it is right in front of us.
“I’m doing everything I can to make sure that we all celebrate our triumph over oppression. Development, growth, and wealth are all hampered by insecurity. I’m delighted everyone is aware of the difficulty.
For my part, I’ve made a commitment to expanding the networks and connections that are required. In the UK, equipment and support were among the main topics of discussion.
“I can inform you that I spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron for a long time yesterday.
“They are working with us to provide equipment and assistance. I’m also trying desperately to get in touch with other countries,” he said.
