Nigeria has ascended to the sixth position in the 2025 Global Terrorism Index (GTI), with a score of 7.658, reflecting a significant increase from its previous eighth-place ranking in 2023 and 2024. This elevation is accompanied by a concerning rise in terrorism-related fatalities, totaling 565 deaths in 2024, marking an uptick from the preceding years.
The GTI report underscores a global trend where over 90% of terrorist attacks and 98% of terrorism-related deaths in 2023 occurred within conflict zones, highlighting a strong correlation between ongoing conflicts and the prevalence of terrorism. This pattern emphasizes the critical need for addressing underlying conflicts to mitigate the spread of terrorism.
In Nigeria, the increase in terrorism-related fatalities is primarily attributed to the activities of extremist groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP). These groups have continued to perpetrate attacks, particularly in the northeastern regions, exacerbating the country’s security challenges.
The Nigerian government has been actively engaged in counterterrorism efforts, including military operations and regional collaborations, to combat these insurgent groups. Despite these initiatives, the persistent threat underscores the necessity for a comprehensive strategy that encompasses not only military action but also socio-economic development and community engagement to address the root causes of extremism.
The GTI serves as a critical tool for policymakers and stakeholders, offering insights into the evolving landscape of global terrorism. Nigeria’s elevated ranking and increased fatalities call for renewed focus on effective counterterrorism strategies and conflict resolution mechanisms to enhance national and regional security.
