FG Declares Kidnappers and Bandits as Terrorists in Major Security Policy Shift
The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially classified kidnappers and violent armed groups as terrorists, signaling a significant escalation in the country’s approach to abductions, attacks on farmers, and rural violence. The announcement was made on Monday by the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, during the end-of-year press briefing in Abuja.
According to the minister, the new designation marks a shift from treating mass kidnappings and rural attacks as ordinary crimes to confronting them under full counterterrorism measures.
“Henceforth, any armed group or individual that kidnaps our children, attacks our farmers, and terrorizes our communities is officially classified and will be dealt with as a terrorist. Now, the era of ambiguous nomenclature is over,” Idris said.
The government explained that this policy would strengthen intelligence sharing and operational coordination across security agencies, allowing for faster and more decisive action against criminal networks. Idris noted that improved inter-agency collaboration has already produced results, citing the capture of two of the most internationally wanted criminals in 2025 through coordinated operations.
In addition to the terrorist classification, the minister announced the deployment of trained and equipped forest guards to secure rural and forested areas often used as hideouts by criminal groups. These personnel will combine surveillance, local intelligence, and rapid-response capabilities to dismantle camps, disrupt supply routes, and reassure vulnerable farming communities.
Idris highlighted recent successes, including the arrest of the ISWAP head operating in Nigeria, described as one of the most wanted terrorists in Africa, who had a substantial bounty from the United States. He also referenced the earlier capture of Abu Barra, emphasizing the role of coordinated security efforts in bringing high-profile criminals to justice.
“These individuals, together with their associates, are undergoing trial and will receive justice that befits their crimes,” Idris said.
By officially labeling kidnappers and armed bandits as terrorists, the FG is signaling zero tolerance for abductions and rural violence, while granting security forces broader powers to tackle these threats decisively.
This initiative is expected to enhance rural security, protect farmers, and reduce the influence of criminal networks, reinforcing the government’s commitment to safeguarding citizens and restoring peace in affected areas.
