The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has undergone a major leadership restructuring, as revealed by counterterrorism expert Zagazola Makama on Saturday.
According to a post on his X handle, over 30 fighters have volunteered as suicide bombers, possibly linked to a recent surge in military attacks in the Lake Chad region.
Makama highlighted that the role of the Southern Lake Chad Basin Region Authority (LCRBA) commander was declared vacant following the reported neutralization of Abu Usman, also known as Usman Russia.
Abu Saleh, a prominent ISWAP figure previously stationed in Tumbun Gini, has assumed the role, vowing to orchestrate at least four major military attacks monthly.
In October, Abu Saleh launched a 150-strong Special Forces team led by Abu Ubaida, with additional commanders under his command.
These units have been mobilized for coordinated strikes on military targets. Intelligence also indicates the deployment of explosive-laden vehicles (SVBIEDs) as part of their strategy.
Families of the fighters have been relocated to a Hisbah center in Tumbumma Babba for care and support.
This reshuffle highlights ISWAP’s intensified operations and its organized command structure under Abu Saleh.
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