In Nigeria, a surge in abductions linked to extremist violence has raised alarms as a recent report highlights a significant increase in insecurity. This comes after a period of reduced violence, suggesting a troubling shift in the nation’s stability.
The report, entitled ‘Nigeria at the Crossroads,’ released by the Christian persecution charity Open Doors, reveals that 3,415 individuals were kidnapped between October and December 2025. This is a stark rise from the 1,352 abductions recorded during the same timeframe in 2024, marking a 153% increase.
Civilian fatalities have also seen a drastic escalation. The number of deaths documented by Open Doors in the last quarter of 2025 reached 1,735, an increase of 51% compared to the 1,148 deaths recorded in the same period the previous year.
According to the report, extremist violence from militant Fulani groups is responsible for more abductions and killings than Boko Haram, despite the latter’s global notoriety.
This surge comes amid growing concerns over safety in northern Nigeria, where communities are continuously threatened by extremist attacks, mass kidnappings, and displacement.
Open Doors notes that violence peaked in 2021 but had seen a period of stabilization before the recent uptick, indicating a possible end to this relative calm.
Jane Boswell, a Senior Advocacy Officer at Open Doors International, commented, “Our research shows that violence in Nigeria appears to be on the increase again. However, with decisive intervention from the Nigerian government, it is possible to alter the trajectory.”
She urged the authorities to enhance security measures, hold attackers accountable, and facilitate the safe return of displaced populations.
“Sustained international attention and pressure on Nigeria is also vital to ensure that justice is upheld and impunity is brought to an end,” Boswell added.
The report also highlights the widespread impact on religious communities, noting that Christians have suffered significant losses, with an increasing number of Muslim victims as well.
Initially, Christians were the majority of kidnapping victims, but from 2024 onwards, more Muslims have been abducted according to the report.
The humanitarian impact of ongoing violence is another concern, with nearly 4 million Nigerians displaced. The report warns that continued unrest and lack of accountability could hinder efforts for these communities to return home.
While acknowledging some efforts by the Nigerian government to tackle the violence, Open Doors emphasizes that without sustained political effort and accountability, these measures may not be effective.
“If current trends of violence and impunity continue, displacement will deepen and the prospects for return will recede further,” the report states. It argues that strengthened Nigerian government actions, combined with international support, could provide a pathway to improved security and justice.
Nigeria’s security challenges garnered increased political focus late last year when Donald Trump, then President of the US, labeled Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern due to religious freedom violations in October 2025.
Subsequently, a national security emergency was declared by Nigerian President Bola Tinubu following a series of mass abductions targeting students and educators.
Currently, Nigeria ranks 7th on Open Doors’ 2026 World Watch List, identifying it as one of the most dangerous countries for Christians.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
