Nigerian troops killed a top Boko Haram deputy leader alongside over 20 militants during a January 30, 2026, operation in Borno state's Sambisa Forest, the military announced. The high-value target, identified as a key lieutenant to Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) commander, was neutralized alongside foot soldiers in a fierce firefight, according to Army spokesperson Major General Ibrahim Attahiru. Weapons, ammunition, and motorcycles were recovered from the camp.
The raid targeted ISWAP's logistics hub amid ongoing counter-terror efforts displacing thousands since 2009. Boko Haram/ISWAP violence has killed 35,000+ and displaced 2.2 million across northeast Nigeria, with recent attacks on islands killing dozens. Troops exploited intelligence from prior arrests, destroying hideouts used for planning suicide bombings and kidnappings—infant rescues reported in similar ops.
Military credits U.S./regional intel sharing; ISWAP vowed retaliation via claimed radio messages. Critics question toll inflation but praise sustained pressure weakening factional infighting. Operations continue to secure Lake Chad basin ahead of rainy season.
