Suspected US missile discovered in Niger community

Residents of the Zugurma area in Mashegu Local Government Area of Niger State were thrown into shock on Monday after a missile-like object was discovered in a bush near the community, prompting swift action from security agencies.

According to local sources, the strange object was spotted by residents during their routine activities in the area. Concerned about its appearance and the potential danger it posed, the locals immediately alerted security authorities for urgent intervention.

A source familiar with the development told this newspaper that the object was suspected to be a missile warhead, with preliminary speculation suggesting it could be a Tomahawk missile component believed to be among missiles fired by the United States.

However, the exact nature and origin of the device remain unclear.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Niger State Police Command, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said the object was discovered on January 5, 2026, at about 2:00pm, following a distress report from the Zugurma community.

“On 5th January, 2026, at about 2pm, a report received from the Zugurma area of Mashegu LGA indicated that some locals in the community sighted an object suspected to be a missile in the bush,” Abiodun said.

He explained that operatives of the Nigeria Police Force attached to the Ibbi Division promptly mobilised to the scene.

According to Abiodun, the police immediately cordoned off and secured the area to prevent access by residents and avert possible danger.

“The police operatives moved to the scene, cordoned and secured the missile, while the EOD-CBRN unit of the Command was deployed for investigation, assessment and recovery,” he added.

The Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) unit is responsible for handling and analysing suspicious and potentially explosive devices.

The police spokesperson said the object has since been taken into custody for thorough examination, stressing that investigations were ongoing to determine its nature, origin and how it came to be in the area.

“The item is under investigation, and further developments will be made public,” Abiodun stated.

Police have urged residents to remain calm and continue to report any suspicious objects or movements to security agencies as investigations continue.