RismadarVoice Reporters, May 27, 2026
A report released by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has estimated that about 30,000 armed Fulani militants are currently operating across Nigeria, identifying them as one of the major drivers of insecurity and religious freedom violations in the country.
The report, titled “Nonstate Violators of Religious Freedom in Nigeria: Fulani Militants,” stated that the armed groups operate in clusters ranging from 10 to 1,000 members and have intensified violent attacks across Nigeria’s Middle Belt and southern regions.
According to the commission, the activities of the groups have resulted in thousands of deaths, widespread displacement of communities, and increased religious tensions.
“Violence by Fulani militants caused the highest number of deaths among all religious communities in Nigeria over the last year as compared to attacks by organised insurgent groups and criminal gangs,” the report stated.
The commission noted that many attacks were reportedly directed at Christian communities, although Muslim communities have also experienced raids, killings, and kidnappings.
It explained that while the groups do not operate under a central leadership structure, some reportedly collaborate with criminal gangs and extremist organisations for various objectives.
“These actors operate in a variety of contexts and with a multiplicity of likely aims and motivations,” the report noted, adding that some groups coordinate with criminal elements and recognised terrorist organisations.
The report further stated that the militants frequently target isolated communities during nighttime operations, often using motorcycles, automatic weapons, and machetes.
According to the commission, at least 1.3 million people have been displaced in the Middle Belt due to attacks by Fulani militants and other armed groups, leaving many victims in overcrowded camps with inadequate facilities.
The report cited several attacks recorded in 2025 and early 2026, including deadly incidents in Benue, Plateau, Kaduna, and Niger states.
USCIRF also criticised what it described as inadequate responses by federal and state authorities, noting complaints from affected communities regarding delayed security interventions.
“Victims have long reported that security forces are consistently slow to respond to attacks on their communities,” the report stated.
The commission acknowledged recent efforts by government authorities, including security operations against armed groups and initiatives aimed at reducing clashes between herders and farming communities.
However, it warned that insecurity remains widespread and could persist without broader reforms addressing the underlying causes of violence and promoting peaceful coexistence.
The report concluded that central Nigeria continues to face a sustained security crisis that requires stronger and more coordinated intervention measures.
