Gunmen on Motorbikes Massacre 22 at Baptism Ceremony in Niger

At least 22 people have been killed after heavily armed men on motorbikes stormed a baptism ceremony in Niger, leaving families devastated and the community gripped with fear.

Local authorities confirmed that the attack happened in a rural part of Tillabéri Region, an area long plagued by extremist violence linked to armed groups operating across the Sahel.

Witnesses said the assailants rode into the village in large numbers during the naming ceremony, opening fire indiscriminately on those gathered to celebrate.

“The attackers came suddenly and began shooting at everyone in sight. Many tried to run, but they were chased down,” one survivor recounted.

The victims reportedly included men, women, and children.

Nigerien security officials said investigations were underway, but no group had immediately claimed responsibility.

However, the Tillabéri Region has frequently been targeted by militants linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, who often move across porous borders with Mali and Burkina Faso.

The Government described the massacre as a “cowardly act of terror” and vowed to intensify counterinsurgency operations in the region.

Community leaders, meanwhile, have called for stronger security presence, noting that residents in remote villages are left vulnerable to repeated attacks despite ongoing military patrols.

The tragedy has sparked widespread condemnation within Niger and from International observers, with many urging more coordinated efforts across West Africa to confront the worsening insecurity in the Sahel.

The latest killings underscore the escalating violence in rural Niger, where thousands have been displaced in recent years and humanitarian agencies warn of deepening instability.

For the grieving families of those killed at the baptism ceremony, the celebration meant to mark new life has now turned into a lasting symbol of sorrow.