Nigeria recorded 1,934 improvised explosive device incidents in the North-East between 2017 and 2024. According to a 2025 Nigeria Mine Action review, road-emplaced IEDs dominated attacks throughout the period. These devices consistently outnumbered body-borne and vehicle-borne explosives across affected states.
As a result, road IEDs remained the most persistent and dangerous security threat yearly. In 2017, authorities recorded the highest number of incidents with 381 attacks. This figure included road, body-borne, and vehicle-based explosive devices. However, incidents dropped to 267 cases in 2018, showing a temporary decline.
Similarly, 2019 recorded 189 cases, reflecting improved security interventions. Despite earlier reductions, incidents increased again in 2020 and 2021. For instance, 2021 recorded 281 attacks, driven largely by road IED deployments. Meanwhile, 2022 saw a decline to 185 cases, with no body-borne incidents reported.In contrast, both 2023 and 2024 recorded 191 incidents each, showing stability.
Notably, road IEDs remained dominant, highlighting their continued use by insurgents. Over time, terrorist groups have adapted tactics, making explosive devices more sophisticated. Consequently, these evolving threats pose serious risks to civilians and security forces. Speaking at a 2026 Abuja workshop, NCTC Coordinator Maj Gen Adamu Laka emphasized the danger. He explained that insurgents continuously modify detonation methods to evade countermeasures.
For example, they moved from wire systems to pressure plate mechanisms over time. Additionally, they introduced layered devices, increasing the risk of deadly explosions. Therefore, Nigeria continues to face significant IED threats across affected regions. Strengthening counter-terrorism strategies remains essential for protecting lives and infrastructure.
