Boko Haram and ISWAP clash in Sambisa as rivalry escalates

Fighting has broken out between Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in parts of Sambisa Forest and nearby communities in Borno State, according to security analyst Zagazola Makama.

Makama shared details on Saturday via X, citing intelligence linked to insurgent communications in the region.

He said the information came from a conversation involving a suspected Boko Haram member, Ba Musa, believed to be operating around the Sambisa axis in Bama Local Government Area, and another individual identified as “Ya Kazalla.” The exchange reportedly took place on Thursday.

In the discussion, Kazalla questioned claims that ISWAP had gained the upper hand in recent confrontations. Musa rejected that account, insisting Boko Haram had inflicted heavier losses.

He claimed that about 100 ISWAP fighters were killed during a clash on April 29 inside Sambisa Forest. He also alleged that seven more ISWAP members were killed in another encounter in a forest area near Molai, Konduga Local Government Area.

Musa further stated that Boko Haram lost one fighter in the incidents, identified as Munzir from Gamargu.

These figures have not been independently confirmed.

Makama noted that exchanges like this point to continued friction between the two factions, which operate separately despite their shared origins. The rivalry has added another layer to the wider insurgency in the region.

Sambisa Forest, surrounding settlements, and parts of the Lake Chad basin remain key operational zones for armed groups, as well as areas where military operations continue.