The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has launched efforts to curb recruitment activities by a new terrorist group, Lukarawa, aiming to reinforce its ranks in the northern states of Sokoto and Kebbi. DHQ Media Operations Director, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, confirmed the military’s knowledge of Lukarawa’s recruitment initiatives and assured the public of collaboration with other security agencies and state authorities to prevent the group’s growth.

Maj. Gen. Buba revealed that Lukarawa fighters had infiltrated northern Sokoto and Kebbi states, coming from regions of Niger and Mali after political instability surged in the Niger Republic. The group, he noted, has not only organized recruitment efforts but has also targeted vulnerable youth by offering welfare packages and leveraging social media platforms.

“It’s clear they’re using social media for recruitment, promoting their sermons, and drawing in youth through promises of welfare support,” Buba explained in an interview on Tuesday. “We’re aware of these tactics and are coordinating with security forces and local governments to counter their moves.”

ALSO READ: New Terrorist Group Emerges in Sokoto: DHQ Confirms Lukarawas Threat in Northwest Nigeria

Last Friday, the group attacked Mera, a town in Kebbi’s Augie Local Government Area, as residents prepared for Jumaat prayers, killing at least 15 people and seizing around 100 cattle. Buba expressed concern over some local communities’ tolerance of Lukarawa’s presence, urging residents to support security agencies by reporting any suspicious activities.

Security experts have also weighed in on the emergence of Lukarawa, with former Department of State Services (DSS) Director Mike Ejiofor clarifying that while Lukarawa has been present since 2018, their limited numbers do not yet constitute a significant national security threat. He emphasized, however, the need for continuous monitoring.

“This group’s origins trace back to 2018 when they were reportedly introduced by a community leader,” Ejiofor said. “Although they initially aided in local conflicts, over time, their presence persisted, particularly in areas where they imposed authority and collected levies.”

Security analyst Timothy Avele added that in some parts of Kebbi, the group has established a form of governance, collecting taxes and resolving disputes independently of traditional leaders and officials. Avele criticized gaps in intelligence that allowed Lukarawa to operate for years with limited public awareness, underscoring the urgency for enhanced intelligence and cyber operations to dismantle their funding and leadership structures.

Both Ejiofor and Avele agreed that targeting the group’s funding sources and sponsors could effectively reduce their influence and recruitment power. Meanwhile, they urged local communities to support government efforts, despite fears of reprisal from the terrorists. As Nigerian forces and intelligence agencies ramp up efforts, the DHQ remains committed to neutralizing Lukarawa’s operations before the group gains further ground.