January 20, 2026 — Dalena Reporters
Numan, Adamawa State, Nigeria — A deadly terrorist attack struck the hometown of Adamawa State Governor Aishatu Dahiru “Binani” Fintiri early Tuesday, resulting in the deaths of two forest guards and reigniting fears about the deteriorating security situation across the northeastern region. The assault underscores persistent threats posed by jihadist and bandit groups despite ongoing military efforts to stabilise the area.
The attack occurred in Numan Local Government Area, where suspected terrorists ambushed forest guards tasked with monitoring and safeguarding community assets and residents. According to local sources, assailants opened fire on the guards in the early hours of the morning, triggering a brief but lethal exchange that left two officers dead and others injured. The attackers reportedly fled into nearby bushland, evading immediate capture by security personnel.
Adamawa State authorities confirmed the fatalities, with a government spokesman expressing “deep sorrow” over the loss of the forest guards, both of whom were stationed to protect the governor’s community and surrounding villages. In an official statement, the government pledged to bolster security measures and ensure a robust response to the assault. The identities of the deceased guards were withheld pending family notification.
The incident comes amid a broader pattern of violence in northeastern Nigeria, where militant groups including factions linked to Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) continue to execute attacks on security formations, infrastructure, and civilian targets. Despite sustained counter-insurgency operations by the Nigerian military and allied forces, such groups have adapted their tactics to exploit rugged terrain and strained local defences.
Governor Fintiri, who hails from Numan, has repeatedly emphasised the need for enhanced coordination between federal and state security agencies to protect communities vulnerable to terrorist incursions. In recent months, the governor has advocated for improved intelligence sharing, increased patrols along key routes, and expanded community vigilance initiatives aimed at curbing insurgent mobility.
Local residents expressed alarm at the attack, noting that such incidents — while not unprecedented — have a profound psychological and economic toll on communities already grappling with displacement, agricultural disruption and chilling insecurity. “We live in fear,” said one youth leader in Numan who asked not to be named. “Every day feels uncertain when these gunmen can strike without warning.”
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), along with the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups, reportedly responded to the incident by mobilising additional patrols and reinforcing checkpoints around Numan and neighbouring districts. Security officials have not yet disclosed whether the attack was part of a coordinated offensive or an isolated incident, but they affirmed that efforts to pursue suspects remain underway.
Analysts say the attack at a governor’s home territory represents not only a tragic loss of life but also a symbolic challenge to government authority in areas where insurgent groups seek to project strength. As institutions and citizens alike call for renewed focus on security strategy, the government’s response in the days ahead will be closely watched for signs of both tactical adjustments and political resolve.