Muslims increase terrorist attacks in Nigeria in 2025

 

Since January, International Christian Concern (ICC) has documented a dramatic rise in attacks against Christian communities in Nigeria. In just over three months, more than 300 Christians have been killed, dozens abducted, and thousands displaced in a wave of organized violence that has swept across Plateau, Benue, Kaduna, Nasarawa, and Ebonyi states. 

One of the most devastating attacks occurred on Palm Sunday, April 13, in Zike village, Plateau state, where at least 56 people, including 15 children, were killed and 103 homes were burned.

Days earlier, militants launched simultaneous attacks on 15 villages in Bokkos LGA, leaving 56 dead, 28 injured, and displacing more than 5,000 people. Another 72 people were killed in an attack that occurred around April 18 in Ukum and Logo LGAs, Benue state.

“These are not isolated incidents,” ICC’s Africa Regional Director said. “This is part of a sustained and growing pattern of religiously motivated violence, where Christian communities are deliberately targeted and devastated.” 

Other notable incidents reported by ICC in 2025 include: 

• Clergy abductions and killings in Edo, Kaduna, and Plateau states 

• More than 230 homes burned or destroyed 

• At least 10 churches damaged or razed — many during Sunday services or overnight attacks 

• At least 15 farms destroyed or seized, threatening food security and livelihoods for displaced Christian families 

The perpetrators are often identified as Islamic Fulani militants operating with impunity. ICC field partners report that many attacks are premeditated, targeting Christians during worship or in their homes at night. 

Despite two decades of ongoing persecution, 2025 marks one of the most violent years in recent memory. Nigerian authorities have yet to deliver adequate protection or justice, and many survivors report being left without shelter, security, or basic support. 

ICC continues to document these attacks, respond with emergency aid, and call for stronger international pressure to protect Nigeria’s Christian population.

To read more news stories, visit the ICC Newsroom. For interviews, please email press@persecution.org.