ZAGAZOLA SECURITY NEWSLETTER

Executive Overview

The first week of February 2026 witnessed intensified insurgent violence, persistent abductions, and sustained counter-insurgency operations across Nigeria and the wider Sahel. While Nigerian security forces recorded tactical successes against bandits and insurgents, militant groups demonstrated continued adaptability, cross-border coordination, and operational resilience.

1 February 2026 — Counter-Insurgency and Rescues

Army frees hostages from Boko Haram in Adamawa

Madagali LGA, Adamawa State

Nigerian Army troops intensified operations and successfully rescued six individuals abducted by suspected Boko Haram fighters. The operation disrupted terrorist leverage through kidnapping and signalled sustained operational reach and pressure on insurgent cells operating in the area.

Insight: Rescue operations remain a key measure in reducing insurgents’ ability to intimidate communities and finance activities through ransom.

2 February 2026 — Multiple Violent Attacks and Abductions

Violence across multiple states and borders

• A Kano-based businessman was abducted in Nasarawa State by unknown gunmen.
• A vigilante member was killed during a bandit raid in Keware Village, Katsina State.
• Four charcoal traders were killed and four abducted by suspected Boko Haram fighters in Borno State.
• Passengers were abducted along a Kogi highway, though four were later rescued.
• A woman and her toddler were abducted in Gombe State.

Reports also indicated a leadership change within ISWAP, with a new commander appointed in the Timbuktu Triangle, signalling internal restructuring of extremist networks beyond Nigeria’s borders.

Security Pattern: February began with both daytime and nighttime attacks, illustrating multi-tier threats from insurgents, bandits, and organised criminal groups.

3 February 2026 — Military Offensive Gains

Air Force precision strike in Katsina

The Nigerian Air Force neutralised 27 bandits in coordinated precision strikes targeting criminal enclaves in Faskari LGA, Katsina State.

Troops clear ISWAP strongholds in Borno

Ground forces cleared militant enclaves, recovered arms, and neutralised improvised explosive devices, degrading ISWAP’s operational capacity.

Analysis: Increasing air–ground synergy is exerting pressure on militant logistics, though insurgents continue exploiting remote terrain.

4 February 2026 — Rural Terror and Peace Deal Failures

Gunmen raid Fulani settlement in Niger State

Armed attackers rustled approximately 200 sheep and injured herders, disrupting livelihoods and heightening fear among pastoral communities.

Faskari attack exposes peace deal limitations

Despite peace and amnesty initiatives, a bandit attack in Faskari, Katsina State, killed more than 20 people, highlighting the limits of negotiated settlements.

Regional Implication: Amnesty without accountability, governance, and socio-economic support remains ineffective.

4 February 2026 — Opinion & Strategic Risk

An opinion analysis highlighted growing links between ISWAP and ISIS networks in the Sahel, posing increased risks to the Lake Chad Basin and the wider West African security corridor.

6 February 2026 — Large-Scale Militant Assault

36 Nigerien soldiers killed in jihadist offensive

At least 36 Nigerien soldiers were killed near the Niger–Burkina Faso border in a coordinated attack linked to Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), underscoring escalating cross-border militant threats.

Security Trends (1 – 7 February 2026)

• Persistent kidnapping and rural banditry
• Militant adaptation despite military pressure
• Weakness of peace–amnesty mechanisms
• Growing transnational security complexities

Summary and Outlook

The first week of February 2026 reflects a volatile security environment marked by both military gains and enduring threats. Addressing these challenges will require enhanced intelligence sharing, stronger border security, and integrated community protection strategies across Nigeria and the wider Sahel.