Analytical Perspective on Boko Haram's Resurgence in Borno State
The resurgence of Boko Haram and its affiliate, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), in Borno State underscores a critical setback in Nigeria's counter-insurgency efforts. Recent attacks and kidnappings signal an adaptation in tactics by the militant groups, leveraging tools such as drones to challenge Nigeria's stretched military resources. This resurgence represents a renewed threat to regional stability and highlights vulnerabilities in Nigeria's security infrastructure.
Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has emphasized the necessity for adopting technological warfare to effectively combat the insurgents. His concerns are compounded by Niger’s withdrawal from the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which further limits regional coordination against armed groups in the volatile Lake Chad region. This withdrawal reduces Nigeria's collaborative capacity to address transnational insurgency challenges, leaving critical gaps in its defense strategy.
From a broader perspective, the resurgence of Boko Haram poses systemic risks to national stability. In addition to insurgent activities, Nigeria is grappling with overlapping security crises, including banditry and escalating farmer-herder conflicts. These challenges stretch the military’s operational capacity, complicating the government’s ability to deliver a decisive response.
The resurgence also has socio-economic implications. Increased displacements exacerbate humanitarian pressures in a region already vulnerable to poverty and limited access to resources. The rising intensity of Boko Haram activities underscores the importance of enhanced regional cooperation, investment in advanced surveillance technology, and a shift from reactive counterinsurgency to pre-emptive and intelligence-driven strategies.
In conclusion, the resurgence of Boko Haram in Borno reflects the persistent volatility in Nigeria’s northeastern region. Addressing these challenges will require robust multilateral collaboration, innovative security measures, and a comprehensive approach to mitigate the cascading effects of insecurity on governance and development.
Discover More
Mozambique: Renewed Insurgent Activity in Mocímboa da Praia
On 16 September 2025, insurgent fighters mounted a surprise raid on Mocímboa da Praia, Cabo Delgado Province, killing at least seven individuals. This marks the first attack in the town in several months and signals the persistence of jihadist networks in northern Mozambique despite ongoing counterinsurgency campaigns.
Burkina Faso – ISWAP–JNIM Rivalry Escalates in Sebba, Turning Tri-Border Corridor into a Strategic Battleground
On 16 September 2025, heavy fighting broke out near Sebba, in Yagha Province, Burkina Faso. The ISWAP/ISGS launched a coordinated assault on entrenched positions of JNIM, triggering prolonged clashes in the heart of the “Three Borders” zone where Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali converge. The incident highlights the intensifying competition between jihadist factions for control of one of the Sahel’s most strategic corridors.
Contact us to find out how our security services can support you.
We operate in almost all countries in Africa, including high-risk environments, monitoring and analyze ongoing conflicts, the hotspots and the potential upcoming threats on the continent. Every day. Around the clock.