UN Security Council strongly condemns deadly terror attack in Nigeria

​​​​​​​HAMILTON, Canada

The UN Security Council on Tuesday firmly denounced a terror attack in western Nigeria that killed at least 170 people on Feb. 3.

"The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the heinous and cowardly terrorist attack in Kwara State, Nigeria, on 3 February 2026, which resulted in the loss of the lives of at least 100 people and the destruction of properties," said a statement.

Expressing their "deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and to the Government and the people of Nigeria," the Council members also "wished a speedy and full recovery to those who were injured as well as the safe return of those abducted."

"The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security," it added.

Emphasizing the need to "hold perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice," the Council urged all UN member states "in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with the Government of Nigeria in this regard."

"The members of the Security Council reiterated that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed," it added, stressing the need to uphold obligations under the UN Charter and international law.

Armed groups attacked two villages in Kwara State, where many of the victims were reportedly shot at close range, while homes and shops were set ablaze, forcing residents to flee into nearby bushland.

The Kwara State government confirmed that 75 victims were buried in a mass grave, but local lawmaker Saidu Baba Ahmed told Anadolu o that 170 bodies were recovered, with the death toll expected to rise.

Kwara State, particularly communities bordering forest belts, has in recent months faced growing security challenges linked to banditry, kidnapping and the movement of armed groups fleeing military pressure in neighboring states in the northwest and north-central regions.