Dozens of people were killed in a violent attack on the villages of Nuku and Woro in Nigeria's Kwara state. Local lawmaker Saidu Baba Ahmed said attackers burned shops, homes, and the residence of the traditional leader, forcing residents to flee. While Ahmed mentioned at least 35 deaths, a Red Cross official reported the toll could be as high as 162. Kwara police called the assailants suspected bandits. Security forces have been deployed to the area, but casualty details remain unclear. Defence Minister Chrisopher Musa confirmed a small US military team is in Nigeria to help with intelligence and training. This is the first official confirmation since a November order from then US President Donald Trump to prepare action against Islamist militants in Nigeria. US Africa Command confirmed the deployment supports Nigerian security forces after a request from Nigeria. Nigeria faces multiple security threats: bandits who loot and kidnap, Islamist insurgents including Boko Haram factions, and separatist unrest. Recent attacks in Kwara may be retaliation against successful counter-terrorism operations. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said the attack was an attempt to distract security forces who have been targeting gangs. In addition, 17 people were killed in Borno state by suspected Boko Haram militants. The US and Nigerian militaries have long cooperated, recently escalating involvement with airstrikes and joint operations. While the US raised concerns over violence in Nigeria, the government denies claims of religious genocide, saying all communities are victims. Efforts to strengthen security continue amid ongoing conflict. The situation remains tense as Nigerian forces intensify efforts to combat armed groups across the country.