Resurgence of Boko Haram and ISWAP Terror in North-East Nigeria

Strategic Insights -

Terrorism has gripped Borno and Yobe States in North-East Nigeria, as Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents have escalated their attacks, forcing the Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, to warn that they are on the verge of taking over Marte Local Government Area. The governor's plea to the Federal Government to intervene has been echoed by a report detailing the significant losses suffered by security operatives, including 152 deaths, between January 2 and May 13, 2025. The attacks, which have also targeted military bases, have raised concerns about the Nigerian security forces' preparedness to tackle the insurgency.

Key Takeaways:

  • Boko Haram and ISWAP have intensified their activities in Borno and Yobe States, threatening to take over Marte Local Government Area.
  • The Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, has appealed to the Federal Government to intervene and save the LGA from falling to the terrorists.
  • A report by SBM Intelligence compiled from media reports and data details 152 security operative deaths between January 2 and May 13, 2025, highlighting the growing toll of insecurity on frontline personnel in Nigeria.
  • The attacks have targeted military bases, with a devastating suicide bombing in Malam Fatori, Borno State, killing 27 soldiers, and a Boko Haram attack on a military base in Marte, Borno State, resulting in 10 soldier deaths.
  • The Chief of Defense Staff, Lt. Gen Chris, has announced that the army has acquired new, sophisticated weaponry.
  • President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 130,000 Forest Guards nationwide to secure the country's 112,000 forest reserves.

Statistics:

  • 152 security operatives were killed between January 2 and May 13, 2025, in attacks by non-state actors across Nigeria, according to a report by SBM Intelligence.
  • 27 soldiers were killed in a suicide bombing carried out by ISWAP in Malam Fatori, Borno State, on January 26.
  • 10 soldiers died when Boko Haram launched an attack on a military base in Marte, Borno State, on May 13.
  • 300 towns and villages comprise Marte Local Government Area, which Boko Haram and ISWAP are threatening to take over.
  • 130,000 Forest Guards will be recruited nationwide to secure 112,000 forest reserves, according to President Bola Tinubu's approval.

Sources:

  • A report by SBM Intelligence compiled from media reports and data.
  • A statement by the Chief of Defense Staff, Lt. Gen Chris.
  • A statement by President Bola Tinubu.