Nigeria: Boko Haram militants kidnap at least 50 in Borno state Nov. 17-18

Event

On Thursday, November 22, security officials announced that Boko Haram militants kidnapped at least 50 loggers in Borno state over the weekend of November 17-18. According to reports, the loggers were kidnapped between the villages of Bulakesa and Gamboru. Further such attacks are likely in the coming weeks. 

Context

The northeastern region of Nigeria (Borno, Yobe, Adamawa) is highly susceptible to attacks by Boko Haram. While Nigerian military forces have pushed insurgents from much of their previously claimed territory over the past year, attacks by the group have been on the rise since June 2017.

Advice

The security environment in Nigeria remains complex. Although travel is permissible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.