Nigeria: Suspected ISWAP militants kidnap six local officials near Wovi along Chibok-Damboa Road, Borno State, Dec. 1

Event

Suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants kidnapped six local officials, employed by the Borno State Ministry of Works, near Wovi in Borno State the morning of Dec. 1. Assailants ambushed the victims as they were inspecting the renovation work of the Chibok-Damboa Road. One of the victims reportedly escaped, while five others remain unaccounted for. There have been no reported casualties or ransom demands as of Dec 2. The incident underscores the persistent militant threat in the northeast.

Context

Kidnapping poses a high threat in Nigeria for both locals and foreign nationals. Most kidnappings in Nigeria are financially motivated and conducted by criminal groups of varying levels of sophistication. Victims of ideologically motivated kidnappings face a higher threat of death and may experience longer captivity times.

Advice

Heed the directives of local authorities in the impacted area. Exercise a high degree of vigilance due to the threat of similar attacks. Maintain regular contact with your diplomatic mission, travel only in convoy, and avoid all travel after dark. Confirm that a thorough communication plan exists to ensure rapid accountability for all personnel operating in northeast Nigeria.