Military Identifies ISWAP Leader, Offers Reward For Information

The Nigerian military has identified several senior leaders of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) operating around the Lake Chad Basin following a major intelligence breakthrough from recent counter-terrorism operations in Borno State.

Operation HADIN KAI said troops recovered a camcorder and other high-value intelligence materials during offensives against ISWAP fighters in the Lake Chad region.

A forensic analysis of the devices reportedly led to the identification of key terrorist locations and senior commanders operating within the Mangari–Metele–Dogon Chukun axis in Abadam and Kukawa Local Government Areas.

Among those identified are Abu Musa Al-Mangawi Baa Shuwa, described as the Wali (Governor) of ISIS West Africa Province; his deputy and Amirul Jaish, Muhammad Jidda, also known as “The One-Handed Man”; and Hamad Abu Hanifa, identified as the Amirul-Fiya of ISWAP.

Operation HADIN KAI described Abu Musa Al-Mangawi Baa Shuwa as “the most wanted terrorist leader operating within the Lake Chad Basin” and announced that a substantial financial reward would be offered for credible information leading to his arrest.

“The military will offer a substantial financial reward to any individual whose credible and actionable information directly leads to his arrest.

All information received will be treated with the utmost confidentiality, and the identity of informants will be fully protected in accordance with established security procedures,” the statement said.

The military urged members of the public to support ongoing counter-terrorism operations by providing timely and credible intelligence through established security channels or via 0708 498 8859.

It also warned citizens against attempting to confront or arrest the suspects.

“Citizens are strongly advised not to confront or attempt to apprehend the suspected terrorists under any circumstances,” the statement added.

The statement was signed by Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Maiduguri.