US Report Claims About 30,000 Armed Fulani Militants Operating Across Nigeria

A new report released by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom has claimed that about 30,000 armed Fulani militants are currently operating across different parts of Nigeria, contributing to rising insecurity and displacement.

A report released by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom has estimated that approximately 30,000 armed Fulani militants are operating across Nigeria. 

The report, titled “Nonstate Violators of Religious Freedom in Nigeria: Fulani Militants,” was published in May 2026 and highlighted growing insecurity across the Middle Belt and parts of southern Nigeria. 

According to the commission, the armed groups operate in scattered formations ranging from small units of about 10 fighters to larger groups reportedly consisting of up to 1,000 members. 

The report stated that these groups have become major non-state actors linked to repeated violent attacks, large-scale displacement, and worsening tensions between communities. 

It further noted that the violence has affected both Christian and Muslim communities, although many incidents were reportedly concentrated in rural farming settlements in the Middle Belt region. 

USCIRF explained that the groups allegedly do not operate under a central command structure, but some are believed to collaborate with criminal gangs and other armed networks. 

According to the report, the attackers often carry out night-time raids on isolated communities using motorcycles, firearms, and machetes. 

The commission estimated that at least 1.3 million people have been displaced in the Middle Belt due to attacks involving armed groups and related violence. 

The report referenced several incidents, including attacks in Benue State where hundreds of people were reportedly killed and displaced during violent raids on communities and internally displaced persons camps. 

It also highlighted attacks allegedly carried out during major religious celebrations such as Christmas and Easter, increasing fear among affected populations. 

USCIRF stated that there are varying interpretations surrounding the violence, with some analysts linking the crisis to economic pressures, land disputes, and herding conflicts, while others describe it as targeted religious persecution. 

The commission also raised concerns about delayed responses by security agencies during attacks but acknowledged recent military operations and government efforts aimed at tackling insecurity. 

According to the report, security forces have conducted rescue operations, arrested suspects, and intensified operations against violent groups in several parts of the country. 

Despite those efforts, the commission warned that insecurity in central Nigeria remains severe, with many communities still vulnerable to recurring attacks and displacement. 

The report concluded by stressing the need for stronger security coordination, improved governance, and long-term solutions addressing the root causes of violence across affected regions.