AWC Security Desk, 21 March 2026
Nigeria has been ranked the 4th most terrorism-affected country in the world in the latest Global Terrorism Index (GTI) 2026, reflecting a worrying surge in violent attacks across the country.
According to the report by the Institute for Economics and Peace, Nigeria recorded the largest increase in terrorism-related deaths globally, rising by about 46%, from 513 deaths in 2024 to approximately 750 in 2025.
Global Ranking (Top Countries)
Nigeria now ranks behind:
1. Pakistan
2. Burkina Faso
3. Niger
4. Nigeria
This marks a deterioration from previous years, when Nigeria ranked lower (e.g., 6th in 2025).
Why Nigeria Dropped (Key Factors)
Surge in Terror Attacks
Increased activities of Boko Haram and ISWAP
Emergence of new extremist groups like Lakurawa
Coordinated attacks, including bombings and village massacres
Major Incidents
Deadly attacks in Maiduguri with multiple casualties
Mass killings in parts of Kwara State and North-Central Nigeria
Frequent ambushes on security forces
Expanding Security Crisis
Spread of violence beyond the North-East to other regions
Combination of terrorism, banditry, and communal conflicts
Overstretched military and security infrastructure
Global Context
Interestingly, global terrorism deaths dropped by about 28% in 2025
However, the Sahel region (including Nigeria) remains the epicentre of global terrorism, accounting for a significant share of deaths
What This Means for Nigeria
Signals worsening insecurity despite ongoing military efforts
Raises concerns for:
Foreign investment
National stability
Humanitarian conditions
Likely to increase pressure on the government to adopt stronger, coordinated counter-terrorism strategies.
