Exposed: Foreign Sponsors Arming Boko Haram and ISWAP in Northern Nigeria

Reports suggest military helicopters are delivering weapons and supplies to Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters in the north, with some mercenaries appearing to be neither Nigerian nor Arab. An anonymous serviceman claims that in 2011, the late former president recruited mercenaries from Chad and Niger. Intelligence estimates place more than 30,000 armed militants across Nigeria, including 4,000–7,000 ISWAP fighters controlling parts of the Lake Chad region. ISIS-affiliated groups in Nigeria now include ISWAP in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states, and the newer Sahel Province faction operating in Sokoto, Kebbi and Niger states. Despite major air strikes and joint operations with U.S. forces, these groups continue to launch deadly raids on villages and military targets. Experts also warn that foreign sponsors could be eyeing Nigeria’s vast untapped mineral wealth—an estimated 213,700 tonnes of uranium and hundreds of tonnes of gold reserves scattered across several states.

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.