23 Nov 2018 | 11:33 AM UTC
Nigeria: Islamic State claims responsibility for Nov. 16-22 attacks /update 1
Islamic State in West Africa (ISWA) fighters claim responsibility for five attacks carried out November 16-22; at least 118 casualties
Event
Militants from the Islamic State in West Africa (ISWA) group have claimed responsibility for five attacks carried out against military bases in Kekeno, Metele, Mainok, Mammanti, and Gajiram (Borno state) November 16-22; they claimed to have killed or wounded 118 soldiers in these attacks. Initial reports placed the total death toll at 54, but more recent reports place the death toll in Metele alone at over 70.
Further attacks by ISWA are likely in Borno state in the near-term.
Context
The northeastern region of Nigeria (i.e. the states of Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa) is highly susceptible to attacks by Islamist militants, including from Boko Haram and ISWA. Though Nigerian military forces have pushed insurgents from much of their previously claimed territory, attacks have been on the rise since June 2017.
Advice
The security environment in Nigeria remains complex, notably in the northeast (e.g. Borno). Although travel is permissible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off-limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
