A Decade Of Tragedy: Over 78,000 Nigerians Killed By Terrorists & Fulani Herdsmen

A Decade of Tragedy: Over 78,000 Lives Lost in Nigeria

78,148 Nigerians Killed By Terrorists & Fulani Bandits In 10 Years- New Report

Startling figures have emerged from a comprehensive security report, revealing that a staggering 78,148 Nigerians lost their lives in various incidents across the country over the past ten years. The report, compiled by Beacon Consulting, a renowned security risk management and intelligence consulting company, sheds light on the grim reality of violence and insecurity in Nigeria.

Analyzing the data year by year, the report highlights the distressing number of fatalities: 11,389 in 2014, 11,119 in 2015, 4,896 in 2016, 4,949 in 2017, 6,162 in 2018, 5,948 in 2019, 8,459 in 2020, 10,887 in 2021, 10,754 in 2022, and 3,585 in 2023. These numbers represent the heartbreaking loss of lives that occurred within the Nigerian population during this period.

The report further delves into the specific causes of these deaths, revealing that 16,644 Nigerians fell victim to terrorism, 8,475 lost their lives to banditry, 1,897 were killed in farmers/herders clashes, and 1,410 individuals lost their lives due to social upheaval. These statistics paint a grim picture of the multifaceted challenges that Nigeria faces in terms of security and stability.

Interestingly, the report also sheds light on the government’s efforts to address the issue. It reveals that during the eight-year tenure of former President Muhammadu Buhari, budgetary spending on security significantly increased from #900bn to #2.3tn. This substantial increase in budget allocation allowed for the enhancement of the armed forces’ equipment repository, recruitment of personnel, and improved training. However, despite these commendable efforts, the report highlights that the rising fatality rates and abductions remain a pressing concern. In 2022 alone, over 11,000 Nigerians lost their lives due to various security dynamics.

Dr. Kabir Adamu, the CEO of Beacon Consulting, stresses the importance of a comprehensive approach to address these security challenges. He emphasizes the need for a thorough review of the national security structure, which currently lacks coordination and collaboration among various security ministries, departments, and agencies. Dr. Adamu suggests that the new administration should expand its agenda outlined in the “Renewed Hope” manifesto to incorporate this critical aspect of national security.

Furthermore, Dr. Adamu proposes the appointment of seasoned professionals to key positions such as the National Security Adviser (NSA) and the Ministries of Defence and Interior. Additionally, he emphasizes the necessity of harmonizing the various policing agencies with the Ministry of Interior to facilitate improved coordination and cooperation.

The release of this comprehensive security report serves as a wake-up call to the new administration. It presents an opportunity to reevaluate existing strategies, implement structural reforms, and prioritize the safety and well-being of Nigerians. The challenges are immense, but with a concerted effort and a commitment to addressing the root causes of insecurity, Nigeria can forge a path towards a safer and more prosperous future for its citizens.