FG Lists 31 Individuals, Groups to Be Treated as Terrorists Under New Security Doctrine

 Ahead of 2026, the Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled a new national security doctrine identifying 31 categories of individuals and groups that will henceforth be treated as terrorists in the country.

The policy shift, announced through official security channels, is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s counter-terrorism framework and addressing evolving threats such as insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, violent extremism, and their support networks.

Under the doctrine, security agencies are empowered to arrest, prosecute, and dismantle all persons or entities falling within the listed categories, while their assets and financial dealings may be frozen in line with existing laws.

According to the government, the classification is based on intelligence assessments and reflects a broader definition of terrorism that goes beyond gunmen to include enablers, financiers, and protectors of violent groups.

Full List of the 31 Categories to Be Treated as Terrorists

1. Armed groups operating outside state authority

2. Individuals carrying lethal weapons without authorisation

3. Bandits

4. Militias

5. Armed gangs

6. Criminal networks with weapons

7. Armed robbers

8. Violent cult groups

9. Forest-based armed groups

10. Foreign-linked mercenaries

11. Political violence actors

12. Ethnic violence actors

13. Financial violence actors

14. Sectarian violence actors

15. Kidnappers

16. Extortionists

17. Financiers of armed groups

18. Money handlers for terror groups

19. Harbourers of terrorists

20. Informants for violent groups

21. Ransom facilitators

22. Ransom negotiators

23. Political protectors of violent actors

24. Political intermediaries

25. Transporters of fighters or weapons

26. Arms suppliers

27. Owners of safe houses

28. Politicians who encourage violence

29. Traditional rulers who enable terror activities

30. Community leaders who facilitate violence

31. Religious leaders who justify or promote terror

The federal government stressed that the list does not name specific individuals but rather defines categories of persons and groups whose actions meet the threshold of terrorism under Nigerian law.

Authorities urged citizens, financial institutions, and community leaders to comply with the directive, report suspicious activities, and avoid any form of association with persons or groups involved in violent or terror-related acts.

Security experts say the move signals a tougher stance by the government as Nigeria intensifies efforts to curb insecurity nationwide.