Kwara Killings: FG Deploys Troops, Police Across North Central

The Federal Government on Friday announced stronger security operations in the North Central region following deadly attacks in Kwara State that left many villagers dead.

The move comes after gunmen attacked Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area last Tuesday night, killing scores of residents and causing panic across nearby settlements.

According to government officials, the renewed action involves the deployment of soldiers, police officers and forest guard units to communities considered vulnerable.

The operation, code-named Operation Savannah Shield, is aimed at restoring calm and preventing further attacks in Kwara and neighbouring states within the region.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the security push is backed by improved intelligence gathering and rapid response measures.

He explained that the steps are part of a broader security framework introduced by President Bola Tinubu after declaring a state of emergency on national security in November 2025.

The President condemned the killings in Kwara and directed security agencies to take firm action against those responsible for the violence. He ordered that all necessary steps be taken to bring the attackers to justice and to protect communities at risk.

As part of the new measures, security presence has been increased around churches and other places of worship, especially during services. Authorities said this is being done in partnership with local leaders and faith groups to reassure residents and prevent further bloodshed.

The Nigeria Police Force has also carried out a nationwide redeployment of officers who were previously assigned to VIP protection duties. These officers have now been reassigned to community policing roles to improve visibility and response time.

The redeployment covers Kwara, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger and the Federal Capital Territory.

Government officials said the counter-terrorism efforts will continue to be led by Nigerian security agencies. However, the administration is open to working with international partners when necessary, particularly in areas such as intelligence sharing and surveillance support.

Residents in affected areas have continued to call for stronger protection following the attack, which is one of the deadliest incidents recorded in the region in recent times.

The government said it remains committed to restoring peace and ensuring that citizens can live and worship without fear.