Turkey has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts following the deadly attack on communities in Kwara State, signalling that its backing goes beyond diplomatic sympathy to concrete security cooperation.
The Turkish government said it would continue to stand with Nigeria in confronting terrorism, a position that aligns with recent defence agreements signed between both countries aimed at strengthening security collaboration.
The renewed pledge came after suspected terrorists attacked Worro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, leaving dozens of residents dead and several others displaced.
Officials in Kwara State confirmed that at least 75 people were killed during the assault.
The state government described the incident as a coordinated act of terror that targeted defenseless rural communities.
Local accounts indicated that the victims were attacked after rejecting attempts by the assailants to impose an unfamiliar religious doctrine, a move that reportedly triggered the violence.
Reacting to the killings, President Bola Tinubu ordered the immediate deployment of an Army battalion to the affected area to restore order and prevent further attacks.
He condemned the gunmen for deliberately targeting civilians, describing their actions as cowardly and inhumane.
“These are enemies of peace who prey on vulnerable communities, but they will be confronted decisively,” the president said, according to officials familiar with the directive.
In a statement issued by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Turkey said it was deeply saddened by the loss of lives but stressed its continued support for Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.
“Türkiye strongly condemns this heinous act and will continue to support Nigeria in its struggle against terrorism,” the ministry said, extending condolences to victims’ families and the Nigerian people.
The statement follows President Tinubu’s recent state visit to Turkey, during which Nigeria and Turkey signed nine bilateral agreements, including a key pact on defence cooperation.
AFRIPOST reports that the agreement provides a framework for deeper collaboration in intelligence sharing, military training, and counter-terrorism operations.
Observers note that Turkey’s response underscores growing international engagement in Nigeria’s security challenges and reflects Ankara’s expanding role as a strategic defence partner in West Africa.