152 security personnel killed in five months – Report

CDS Musa

No fewer than 152 security operatives, including soldiers, police officers, and members of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, have been killed in attacks by non-state actors across Nigeria between January 2 and May 13, 2025.

This figure, compiled from media reports and data from security think tank SBM Intelligence, underscores the growing toll of insecurity on frontline personnel in the country.

Analysts say the real number may be significantly higher due to underreporting in conflict zones.

The violence has not spared civilians. In a separate report, Beacon Security and Intelligence Limited disclosed that at least 4,702 civilians were killed and 3,739 abducted between January 1 and April 30, 2025.JAMB’s

Several major incidents during the reporting period reveal the persistent threats faced by Nigeria’s security forces.

On January 2, gunmen killed five security operatives and two civilians during a burial ceremony in Ihiala, Anambra State.

Two days later, on January 4, six soldiers were slain in Sabon Gari, Damboa LGA, Borno State, in a Boko Haram/ISWAP offensive.

Another ambush in the same area on January 6 resulted in the deaths of six additional soldiers and the destruction of military vehicles.

A suicide bombing on January 26 in Malam Fatori, Borno State, reportedly carried out by ISWAP, killed 27 soldiers.

In March, militants attacked military bases in Wajiroko and Wulgo, Borno, killing at least four soldiers.

In April, three police officers were gunned down at a checkpoint in Enugu State.

On May 3, four soldiers were killed and decapitated in a terrorist attack on the 27 Task Force Brigade in Buni Gari, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State, during which military installations were also set ablaze.