By Muhammad Mamman
Pope Leo XIV has expressed deep sorrow over a fresh wave of violent attacks in Nigeria that have claimed scores of lives and sparked fears of widening insecurity, urging government authorities to do more to protect civilians and stem the rising tide of bloodshed. 
In a message delivered after Sunday’s Angelus prayer at St Peter’s Square, the Catholic pontiff condemned the “heavy loss of life” in recent assaults across several Nigerian states and offered prayers for the victims of terrorism and communal violence. 
The Pope’s appeal follows a brutal coordinated attack on 3 February in Woro village in Kwara State, where at least 160 people were reportedly killed, and comes amid continuing assaults in other parts of the country. Gunmen are also reported to have killed villagers and abducted others — including a Catholic priest — in an early-morning raid in the Kauru area of Kaduna State. 
“It is with sorrow and concern that I learned of these recent attacks against various communities in Nigeria leading to a heavy loss of life,” the Pope said, expressing his “prayerful closeness” with the bereaved and wounded. He urged Nigeria’s authorities to intensify efforts to ensure “the safety and protection of every citizen.” 
The pontiff also called on the faithful to pray for peace and reconciliation and warned that violence, if left unchecked, fueled fear and suffering among civilians across the country. 
The renewed Vatican appeal comes as insecurity continues to disrupt life in many parts of Nigeria, with armed groups carrying out attacks that have displaced communities, sparked widespread fear, and drawn criticism of the federal government’s response. 
What the Pope’s message signals:
• A growing global focus on Nigeria’s security crisis and its humanitarian impact. 
• Calls for stronger protection of civilians and accountability for violence. 
• Solidarity from the Catholic Church with victims and affected communities. 
Context: Recent attacks in Nigeria’s north-central and north-western regions have compounded a long-running security challenge involving armed militants, bandits, and other violent groups, prompting concerns about escalating violence and mass displacement. 
