30,000 Armed Fulani Militants Fuel Nigeria's Insecurity

A report by the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) reveals that around 30,000 armed Fulani militants are currently operating across various parts of Nigeria, making them one of the deadliest non-state actors in the country. The report highlights that these militants have been responsible for the highest number of deaths among religious communities in Nigeria last year, with attacks often targeting Christian populations.

In particular, the report cites incidents in Benue State, including the Yelwata massacre in June 2025, where at least 200 people were killed. The militants have displaced approximately 1.3 million people, forcing many into overcrowded camps with poor sanitation.

Attacks have been noted to occur during significant Christian holidays, exacerbating psychological trauma among victims. The report also details specific incidents, such as the killing of 32 people in Niger State in February 2026 and attacks on worshippers in Kaduna State.

The USCIRF emphasizes the complex motivations behind these attacks, which include both religious and economic factors.