Pope Leo XIV has sent a solidarity message to Nigeria following a deadly gunmen attack that killed more than 160 people in one of the country’s deadliest attacks in recent months.
The Pontiff also expressed concern and sorrow over the loss of life, indicating his commitment to prayer for the victims and their families.
“It is with sorrow and concern that I learned of the recent attacks against various communities in Nigeria, leading to a heavy loss of life. I express my prayerful closeness to all the victims of violence and terrorism,” the pontiff wrote in a post on his X handle.
He further urged Nigerian authorities to remain steadfast in efforts to safeguard lives.
“I likewise hope that the competent Authorities will continue to work with determination to ensure the safety and protection of the life of every citizen. #PrayTogether.”
Between February 3 and 4, 2026, armed men attacked the villages of Woro and Nuku in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State. While residents and local authorities believe close to 170 people have been killed, the police and Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, however, believe the death toll is about 75.
Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has deployed the military in an operation dubbed “Operation Savannah Shield.” The operation is expected to serve as a “checkmate the barbaric terrorists and protect defenceless communities.”
Nigeria continues to grapple overlapping security crises, including insurgency by Boko Haram and ISWAP, widespread banditry, farmer‑herder conflicts, and separatist tensions creating a multifront battle for the nation’s security forces.
