Boko haram army faces new dangers campaign
Boko Haram, a militant Islamist group operating in northeastern Nigeria, has been facing new dangers and challenges in its campaign of violence and terror. Here are some of the latest developments:
- ISWAP merger: In August 2021, Boko Haram merged with the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), a splinter group that broke away from Boko Haram in 2016. The merger has strengthened Boko Haram's ties with the Islamic State (ISIS) and increased its capabilities.
- New tactics: Boko Haram has adopted new tactics to evade detection and attack its enemies. These include using drones, suicide bombers, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to target military convoys and civilian populations.
- Increased use of child soldiers: Boko Haram has been recruiting more child soldiers, often forcing them to fight on the front lines or use them as suicide bombers. This has raised concerns about the group's ability to radicalize and exploit vulnerable children.
- Escalating violence in Lake Chad region: Boko Haram has intensified its attacks in the Lake Chad region, which borders Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, and Niger. The group has been using the region as a safe haven and launching attacks on military bases and civilian targets.
- Military setbacks: The Nigerian military has suffered several setbacks in its campaign against Boko Haram, including the loss of key strongholds and the death of high-ranking officers. The group has also been able to adapt to the military's tactics and counter-attacks.
- Humanitarian crisis: The conflict has displaced millions of people and created a humanitarian crisis in the region. The United Nations has warned of a looming famine and called for increased aid to support those affected by the conflict.
- Regional cooperation: In response to the growing threat, regional leaders have increased cooperation to combat Boko Haram. The Lake Chad Basin Commission, which includes Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, and Niger, has launched joint military operations against the group.
- International support: The international community has also increased its support to Nigeria and the region. The United States, France, and other countries have provided military aid and training to help combat Boko Haram.
- Insurgency spreading: Boko Haram's violence has spread beyond Nigeria's borders, with attacks reported in Cameroon, Chad, and Niger. The group has also been linked to other terrorist organizations in the region.
- Long-term challenges: The conflict is likely to continue for the foreseeable future, with long-term challenges including the need to address the root causes of the insurgency, such as poverty, inequality, and political instability.
Overall, Boko Haram's campaign of violence and terror continues to pose a significant threat to regional stability and security. The group's ability to adapt and evolve its tactics, combined with the ongoing humanitarian crisis and regional instability, make it a complex and challenging problem to address.