Nigeria: Military repels ISWAP insurgents from Monguno (Borno state) January 7

Event

Members of the Islamic State-West Africa Province (ISWAP) ambushed a civilian convoy escorted by soldiers traveling from Maiduguri to Kano State, near Jakana village, along the Maiduguri - Damaturu highway (Borno state) on the morning (local time) of Tuesday, January 7. According to local sources, the ISWAP militants kidnapped 16 people. At approximately 17:00 the same day, militants attacked the town of Monguno (Borno state) via an abandoned checkpoint. However, local sources confirmed that the military stopped the attack, killing one person and injuring 14 others. Conflicting reports have been issued regarding casualty figures and details are still emerging.

A heightened security presence is expected in the area over the near term. Similar attacks are possible in the coming weeks.

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 ISWAP. Though Nigerian military forces have pushed insurgents from much of their previously claimed territory, attacks have been on the rise since June 2017.

Advice

Individuals in Borno state are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments. The security environment in Nigeria remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.