Minister Sympathises with Borgu Victims After Deadly New Year Terror Attack

Minna, Niger State | January 7, 2026

The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, has expressed deep sympathy with residents of Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State following a deadly New Year terrorist attack that claimed 42 lives.
In a heartfelt statement released on Tuesday, the minister mourned victims of the brutal assault on Kasuwan Daji and other rural communities in Borgu, which occurred on January 3, just three days into the New Year. The attack left scores of people injured, several homes destroyed, and an unspecified number of residents abducted, including women, children, and the elderly.

Dr. Abdullahi described the incident as “senseless, deliberate, and murderous,” condemning what he called the depravity of terrorists and bandits who violently disrupted the peaceful livelihoods of rural communities.

“My heart goes out to the families who have lost their loved ones, just as I wish a quick recovery to the many who were injured during the rage of atrocities,” the minister said.
He also extended his sympathy to the Niger State Government, particularly Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, acknowledging the challenging security situation confronting the state. Dr. Abdullahi commended the governor’s efforts to strengthen security across vulnerable areas.
Urging the people of Borgu to remain resolute, the minister called for unity and resilience in the face of the tragedy.

“Let us grieve, because we have lost our loved ones and our possessions. But I call on the Borgu communities to invoke their age-old spirit of resilience, wipe away their tears, and firmly resolve to never allow the lawless terrorists and bandits dictate their rhythm of life,” he stated.
Dr. Abdullahi emphasised that the violence was indiscriminate, noting that the attackers targeted innocent citizens regardless of religion or ethnicity, including Bussawa, Hausa, Kambari, and Fulani communities. He urged residents to cooperate with security agencies to flush out criminal elements, stressing that Borgu must not become a haven or theatre for such atrocities.

The minister further reassured residents of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to ensuring that those responsible for the heinous crimes are apprehended and prosecuted. Meanwhile, security agencies are yet to provide further details on ongoing investigations and rescue efforts for those abducted during the attack.