Joint US-Nigeria Strike Topples ISWAP Leadership and Sparks Internal Collapse

In mid-May, Nigerian and U.S. forces carried out a precision nighttime raid in the Lake Chad Basin that killed Abu-Bilal al-Minuki and other senior ISWAP commanders. The operation also destroyed key logistics hubs and weakened the group’s command structure. Since the strike, intensified pressure under Operation Hadin Kai has led to infighting, mass surrenders and defections among ISWAP fighters. Security officials report dozens of militants laying down arms and dozens more hostages freed in follow-up operations. Analysts say the loss of seasoned leaders and exposure of internal betrayal have shaken ISWAP’s morale and disrupted its coordination. Reports now indicate a pause in the flow of foreign fighters and growing distrust between local and imported operatives, marking a major shift in the insurgency’s strategy.

Use The App To Win ₦1m

Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.