The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has claimed responsibility for a wave of attacks targeting Nigerian security forces and locations in neighbouring countries.
The group’s claims were detailed in a publication originally released in Arabic and later translated into English. The document, which surfaced on 𝕏 (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, outlined a series of coordinated operations involving roadside bombs, ambushes, and assaults on security checkpoints.
Among the incidents cited was an alleged attack on a military patrol in northern Nigeria. According to the statement, an improvised explosive device detonated on the patrol, reportedly killing seven soldiers, including a Major, injuring others, and destroying a military vehicle.
ISWAP also claimed it carried out another operation on an army position near a town’s outskirts, saying the attack was designed to lure troops into an ambush.
The group further alleged involvement in attacks on police officers and local militia groups, claiming dozens of casualties across Nigeria and neighbouring Niger Republic.
In one instance, ISWAP reported an assault on a checkpoint at the entrance of Rifa city in Niger Republic, claiming multiple casualties, the destruction of a vehicle, and the seizure of weapons.
According to the publication, the group carried out 11 attacks within a week, allegedly destroying or disabling 42 vehicles.
The report also included claims of operations outside West Africa, including an alleged attack on a government vehicle near Raqqa in Syria.
ISWAP accused Nigerian troops of conducting retaliatory actions against civilian communities around Monguno, describing such actions as attempts to conceal operational setbacks.
However, security analysts have urged caution in interpreting the claims, noting that insurgent groups often exaggerate their activities as part of propaganda and psychological warfare.
A security source emphasised that such statements should be critically assessed, as they may not accurately reflect events on the ground.
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