New terror group ‘Lukawaras’ emerges in Northwest Nigeria – Defence Headquarters

The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has confirmed the emergence of a new terrorist group known as “Lukawaras” operating in the North-western region, marking a significant security challenge in the area.

In a briefing on Thursday in Abuja, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, announced that the group originated in the Republic of Niger following the recent coup that disrupted longstanding military cooperation between Nigeria and Niger.

According to Maj. Gen. Buba, the Lukawaras terrorists began infiltrating Sokoto and Kebbi States from Niger and Mali, exploiting gaps in border security that arose after the coup in Niger.

Previously, joint operations between Nigerian and Nigerien forces had contained the threat, but the cooperation breakdown allowed Lukawaras to cross into Nigeria’s northern borders unchecked.

“The terrorists took advantage of the gaps in cooperation between both countries and exploited difficult terrains to make incursions into remote areas in some north-western states to spread their ideology,” Buba explained. He further noted that some local communities initially welcomed the group, unaware of its true intentions and failing to report its presence to the military.

Despite these challenges, the Defence Headquarters assured the public that military forces are actively conducting Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations to monitor and combat the group.

Buba said the Lukawaras continue to exploit ungoverned spaces to evade troops, harass locals, and impose their beliefs, but assured that ongoing military efforts aim to degrade and eliminate the threat.

The Defence Headquarters further urged residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to security forces as they work to contain the new threat posed by the Lukawaras.

The Nigerian Police Force in Sokoto State also confirmed the presence of Lukawaras in five local government areas: Gudu, Tangaza, Binji, Illela, and one other.

Police spokesperson Ahmed Rufai reported that the group, equipped with sophisticated weapons, has been operating within these areas and imposing its ideology on residents.