Jihadist group militants increase attacks in Nigeria-Niger-Benin borderlands

Expansion of Jihadist Activities in West Africa

Recent data from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data (ACLED) project indicates an expansion of activities by jihadist groups such as Al-Qaida and Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM) in the border regions of Nigeria, Niger, and Benin. This area has become a significant flashpoint of violence.

Jihadist militant groups have historically been active in northern Nigeria and parts of Niger and Benin. However, recent years have seen these groups solidify their presence in the region, leading to increased attacks on civilians and armed forces.

The ACLED report highlights that jihadist violence in the border regions saw a marked increase in 2025 compared to previous years. The report notes that while the borderlands form a connected conflict zone, each country experiences distinct dynamics.

In Nigeria's Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara states, the number of violent events rose by 86%. Benin witnessed irregular but deadly cross-border raids by Islamist groups. In Niger, the Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP) claimed responsibility for ambushes against the Nigerien armed forces in Goubey in December and Birni N’Konni in February.

Several jihadist groups operate in West Africa, including:

Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM) Boko Haram, primarily in Nigeria Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP) Islamic State in the West African Province (ISWAP)

Governments in the region are facing challenges in curbing the spread of violence. The United States armed forces recently conducted airstrikes on ISSP camps in Nigeria, citing Nigeria's inability to control violent attacks on civilian populations.

Based on reporting by Africanews.