Nigeria: Suspected ISWAP rocket attacks target Maiduguri, Borno State, ahead of Presidential visit Dec. 23

Event

Security forces will maintain a heightened security posture in Maiduguri and its environs, Borno State, in the coming hours following suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) rocket attacks the morning of Dec. 23. The attack comes ahead of the visit of President Muhammadu Buhari, who is scheduled to arrive the same day. Initial unconfirmed reports indicate that improvised rockets impacted the Ngomari, Bulumkutu, and Ayafe areas located near Maiduguri International Airport (MIU). Casualties and damage to infrastructure have been reported.

Movement of troops and additional security measures such as checkpoints are certain in the vicinity of Maiduguri in the coming hours. Further such attacks remain possible.

Context

Militant activity usually gains in intensity gradually during the dry season. Further such attacks are likely in the coming weeks.

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. In the event of additional reports of rocket fire, stay indoors away from windows and exterior walls; if possible, move to a ground floor or basement.