Terrorism Takes a Hit: Nigerian Troops Rescue 11 Victims from ISWAP, Deal Crushing Blow to Insurgents

The Nigerian military has dealt a crushing blow to the Islamic State's West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Borno State, underscoring its resolve to uproot terrorism in northern Nigeria. The successful rescue came just four days after a failed terrorist attack that had left many fearing for their lives.

Borno State has long been at the epicenter of the ISWAP insurgency, which has ravaged the region since 2015. The conflict has claimed thousands of lives and displaced hundreds of thousands more, transforming Borno into a de facto war zone. The roots of the crisis date back to the Baga massacre in 2015, where ISWAP militants killed an estimated 2,000 civilians.

The Nigerian military has been waging a fierce battle against extremist groups, with Operation Hadin Kai – launched in May 2021 – being the latest iteration of this struggle. Today, as troops of Operation Hadin Kai have dealt a significant blow to ISWAP's activities, it is clear that the war for Borno remains far from over.

The conflict has had a profound impact on the local population, who have been subjected to widespread human rights abuses, including forced displacement, arbitrary detention, and extrajudicial killings. One notable example of the devastating effects of the insurgency is the Baga massacre in 2015, where ISWAP militants killed an estimated 2,000 civilians.

The success of Operation Hadin Kai's daring operation highlights the military's resolve to uproot terrorism in northern Nigeria. Yet, despite this progress, the conflict continues to simmer, with recent reports suggesting that ISWAP has continued to adapt and evolve its tactics. In January 2026, ISWAP militants attacked a civilian convoy in Borno State, killing at least five people and injuring several others.

The root causes of the insurgency run deeper than simply the actions of militant groups. The conflict has been fueled by a complex interplay of historical, cultural, and economic factors, including the legacy of colonialism, regional tensions, and the struggle for resources. As policymakers acknowledge these underlying drivers of the conflict, they can develop targeted solutions to address them.

In recent months, there have been reports of increased humanitarian activity in Borno State, with aid organizations working tirelessly to provide critical assistance to displaced communities. However, despite these efforts, many residents remain trapped in a cycle of poverty and insecurity, struggling to access basic necessities like food, water, and healthcare.

The events unfolding in Borno, Nigeria, reflect a broader global trend of terrorism and extremist movements gaining momentum in various parts of the world. The rise of groups like ISWAP and Boko Haram serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by these organizations.

The attacks on civilians, including the Baga massacre in 2015, are eerily reminiscent of other mass atrocities committed by terrorist groups around the world. For instance, the 2015 attack on the Charlie Hebdo office in Paris, which killed 12 people, was carried out by two brothers affiliated with Al-Qaeda.

The use of social media platforms by extremist groups to spread propaganda and recruit new members is a global phenomenon. The ISWAP's use of Twitter and other platforms to disseminate its message and coordinate attacks mirrors the tactics employed by Al-Qaeda in the Arab Convention (AQAP) and the Islamic State (ISIS).

Furthermore, the adaptability and resilience of terrorist groups are indicative of a global trend. The Boko Haram's adaptation of tactics from other extremist groups, such as AQAP and ISIS, is reflective of a broader phenomenon where terrorist organizations learn from each other's experiences to stay relevant and effective.

The international community's response to these threats is also influenced by the global landscape. The United States' establishment of a special task force to combat terrorism in Nigeria reflects the growing recognition of the threat posed by extremist groups globally. Similarly, the European Union's efforts to strengthen its counter-terrorism capabilities are in line with the global trend of increased cooperation and coordination among nations to combat terrorist threats.

The conflict in Borno State is part of a broader regional trend of terrorism and extremism that has been on the rise in West Africa. The Islamic State's West Africa Province (ISWAP) has become increasingly active in the region, posing a significant threat to regional security.

In conclusion, the war for Borno remains far from over. To truly address the root causes of the insurgency, policymakers must engage with the complex historical, cultural, and economic factors that have contributed to this crisis. This includes acknowledging the legacy of colonialism, regional tensions, and the struggle for resources that have fueled the conflict.

To address the threat posed by ISWAP effectively, policymakers must prioritize support for local populations affected by the conflict, including displaced communities and civilians caught in the crossfire. Addressing the root causes of the insurgency will be crucial, including engaging with local leaders and communities to address historical grievances and promote inclusive development.

Ultimately, the success of Operation Hadin Kai's daring operation marks a significant step towards addressing the threat posed by ISWAP in northern Nigeria. However, it is only one piece in the puzzle of a broader global struggle against terrorism and extremist movements.