At least 60 people were killed in a wave of attacks by armed groups across villages in northwestern Nigeria. The attacks, spanning the neighbouring states of Kebbi and Niger, hit at least 10 villages, according to clergymen and a humanitarian report.

In Shiroro local government area of Niger state, at least 20 people were killed in an attack on the village of Erena on Tuesday, according to a situation report citing local humanitarian workers. Residents said dozens of gunmen stormed the area, opening fire and burning homes.

One survivor said the attackers moved through the village "shooting sporadically," forcing residents to flee into the surrounding bushland. Several people were also reportedly abducted.

Authorities confirmed the incident, with police saying at least two vigilante members and a driver attached to a security team were among the dead.

A separate military report described the assailants as heavily armed "bandits" who also targeted a nearby military position.

In neighboring Kebbi state, local clergy reported between 24 and more than 40 deaths in separate attacks, suggesting the overall toll could be significantly higher.

Northwest Nigeria has seen a surge in violence driven by criminal gangs locally referred to as bandits, who carry out raids, kidnappings and killings. Security analysts say some of these groups are increasingly collaborating with jihadist factions, further worsening instability.