Nigeria has recorded one of the sharpest rises in terrorism-related deaths globally, even as overall fatalities declined worldwide, according to the 2026 Global Terrorism Index released by the Institute for Economics & Peace. The report shows deaths in Nigeria surged by 46 percent in 2025 to about 750, largely driven by attacks from Islamic State West Africa Province and Boko Haram.
Despite global improvements, terrorism remains heavily concentrated, with nearly 70 percent of deaths occurring in just a handful of countries including Pakistan, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Niger, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Nigeria and DR Congo recorded the highest increases in fatalities, highlighting worsening insecurity in parts of sub-Saharan Africa.
The report identified two of the world’s deadliest attacks in 2025 as occurring in Borno State, where insurgent groups carried out large-scale assaults on communities, resulting in dozens of deaths and abductions. These incidents underscore the persistent threat posed by extremist factions in the region.
Globally, terrorism deaths dropped significantly in 2025, falling by 28 percent to their lowest level in nearly two decades. However, sub-Saharan Africa remains the epicenter of terror activity, accounting for the majority of the world’s most affected countries. The report also flagged rising concerns such as youth radicalisation, cross-border attacks, and increasing lone-actor incidents in Western nations.
While improvements were recorded in many parts of the world, analysts warn that escalating geopolitical tensions could reverse recent gains. The findings highlight the urgent need for stronger counter-terrorism measures and sustained international cooperation, particularly in high-risk regions like Nigeria.
