Nigeria: Increased security presence likely in Maiduguri, Borno State, following suspected ISWAP rocket attacks Dec. 4

Event

Security forces are likely to maintain a heightened security posture in Maiduguri and its environs, Borno State, in the coming days following suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) attacks in the city Dec. 4. Initial reports indicate that assailants reached the outskirts of the city in the morning and launched improvised rockets targeting the 1000 Housing Estate and Gomari areas, located nearby Maiduguri International Airport (MIU). Conflicting reports also suggest that armed clashes ensued between Nigerian troops and attackers. Damage to infrastructure has been reported; officials have not confirmed if any casualties occurred or confirmed the incident at the time of writing. Even though there has been no claim of responsibility yet, ISWAP and/or Boko Haram militants are likely behind the attack.

Additional checkpoints and movement of troops are likely in the vicinity of Maiduguri in the coming hours and days. Further such attacks remain likely.

Context

An increase of attacks is likely over the coming days and weeks as militant activity usually gains in intensity gradually during the dry season.

Northeast Nigeria is highly susceptible to attacks and kidnappings by Islamist groups, including ISWAP and Boko Haram. Militants will continue to pose a significant threat to security in the border areas with Cameroon, Chad, and Niger, with regular attacks on civilian settlements and security forces positions almost certain to continue.

Advice

Liaise with trusted contacts and confirm the viability of conducting operations in Borno State. Heed the directives of local security forces and travel with easily accessible personal identification to facilitate movement through checkpoints. Maintain regular contact with your diplomatic mission, travel only in convoy, and avoid all travel after dark.