In a renewed effort to stamp out terrorism, Nigeria’s armed forces have intensified their military operations against the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP). Recent reports confirm a series of targeted airstrikes and ground offensives aimed at disrupting the insurgents’ strongholds across the North-East region.
According to the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and ground troops successfully neutralized several ISWAP fighters and destroyed key logistic bases used for planning attacks (Vanguard News, 2025).
This escalation in military actions comes at a critical time, as ISWAP had stepped up its attacks on civilian and military targets, threatening stability in parts of Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa States.
Why the Renewed Offensive?
The Islamic State West Africa Province emerged after a split from Boko Haram in 2016, and has since become one of the most lethal terror groups in Africa. Their tactics involve ambushing military convoys, attacking villages, and disrupting humanitarian efforts.
In recent months, ISWAP militants have targeted aid workers, displaced persons’ camps, and key infrastructures, attempting to spread fear and undermine governance. Intelligence reports suggest that the group has been receiving external support, enabling them to regroup and rearm.
To counter this threat, the Nigerian military launched Operation Desert Sanity II, a strategic campaign focused on:
-
Destroying ISWAP logistics hubs
-
Cutting off supply routes
-
Rescuing abducted civilians
-
Eliminating key commanders
Major General Buba emphasized:
“We are determined to dismantle terrorist networks and restore peace to affected communities. Our operations are precise, intelligence-driven, and aimed at minimizing collateral damage.”
What Citizens Should Know and How to Stay Safe
While the military intensifies its campaign, civilians in the North-East and other sensitive areas must remain vigilant. Here’s how to stay safe:
-
Stay Informed:
Follow official announcements from security agencies like the Nigerian Army, NAF, and Nigeria Police Force. -
Avoid Conflict Zones:
Refrain from traveling to high-risk areas without clearance. Key locations like Sambisa Forest, Lake Chad Basin, and border towns remain volatile. -
Report Suspicious Activities:
Community members should report unfamiliar movements, suspicious persons, or abandoned objects to the nearest security agencies. -
Follow Safety Protocols:
During military operations, residents are often advised to stay indoors or evacuate if necessary. Always comply with official directives. -
Support Counterterrorism Efforts:
Vigilante groups, community leaders, and local NGOs should collaborate closely with government forces to provide accurate intelligence.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has also stepped up its support in delivering relief materials to displaced communities and assisting those fleeing conflict zones.
Nigeria’s Broader Counterterrorism Strategy
Nigeria’s fight against ISWAP is not happening in isolation. The government, through the Lake Chad Basin Commission, collaborates with neighboring countries like Chad, Niger, and Cameroon in the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF).
Additionally, international partners such as the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) have provided training, intelligence sharing, and logistical support to bolster Nigeria’s counterterrorism capabilities.
“No country can defeat terrorism alone. Regional and international cooperation is vital,” remarked UN Secretary-General António Guterres during his last visit to Borno State in 2024 (UN News).
Final Thoughts
The intensified military operations against ISWAP signal Nigeria’s determination to reclaim its territories and protect its citizens from terror. However, lasting peace will require a combined approach: military victory, strong governance, grassroots engagement, and rebuilding war-torn communities.
For now, while progress is being made on the battlefield, it remains critical that civilians exercise caution, remain alert, and cooperate with authorities to ensure personal and collective safety.
Stay updated with verified sources and support peacebuilding efforts in your communities.
📢 For further updates and detailed analysis, stay connected to Xamblog.com.
Last Updated on April 28, 2025 by kingstar
