ISWAP Reshuffles Leadership as Over 30 Fighters Volunteer for Suicide Missions

The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has carried out a leadership reshuffle, according to counterterrorism expert Zagazola Makama. On Saturday, Makama reported via his X handle that over 30 ISWAP fighters have volunteered to become suicide bombers, a move that may be linked to the recent uptick in attacks on military locations across the Lake Chad region.

Citing intelligence sources, Makama revealed that the leadership vacuum created by the removal of the Southern Lake Chad Basin Region Authority (LCRBA) commander led to the rise of new leadership. The position was left open following the alleged neutralization of Abu Usman, also known as Usman Russia, who previously served as the Amirul Fiya (Chief Military Commander) for the region. His replacement, Abu Saleh, was previously stationed in Tumbun Gini, Abadam Local Government Area, and served as a Kheed before his promotion.

Abu Saleh’s appointment followed a declaration by ISWAP leadership, stipulating that the new commander must execute at least four significant attacks on military targets within a month. Saleh reportedly volunteered for this mission, pledging to meet the challenge. In October 2024, shortly after his appointment, he launched a specialized unit of about 150 Special Forces. The unit, led by Abu Ubaida, was mobilized for coordinated assaults on military installations across the region, with the ISWAP strongholds of Kangarwa and Dogon Chikun being central to their operations.

Makama explained that Abu Ubaida, alongside four other commanders—Abu Ali, Ibn Mustapha, Abu Nazir, and Goni Ali—has been tasked with overseeing these operations, which include the deployment of suicide bombers. The unit is also responsible for managing the tactical and operational activities under Abu Saleh’s leadership, who operates from the base in Jibularam.

Additionally, the families of the deployed fighters, especially their wives, have been relocated to the Hisbah center in Tumbumma Babba, where provisions have been made for their care.