ISWAP Appoints New Commander in Borno After Nigerian Troops Kill Julaibib

The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has named Abu Khalifa as its new commander in Borno State following the death of former leader Julaibib, who was killed by Nigerian troops.

Security sources told counterinsurgency expert Zagazola Makama on Monday that the leadership change came after internal consultations within the group.

Julaibib was reportedly neutralized during a military operation by troops of Operation HADIN KAI in the Kimba area of Damboa Local Government Area. His death prompted ISWAP to reorganize its command structure in the strategically important Timbuktu Triangle.

“Intelligence indicates that Abu Khalifa has been appointed as the new ISWAP commander in the region,” a source said.

While no official deputy has been named, senior ISWAP figure Tuja is reportedly a leading candidate to serve as second-in-command.

The leadership shift occurs amid intensified military offensives by Operation HADIN KAI targeting ISWAP and Boko Haram positions across southern Borno State, as security forces continue efforts to degrade insurgent capabilities in the region.