Three Nigerian soldiers were executed in a chilling video posted by the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), a Boko Haram offshoot supported by the Islamic State. Despite continuous military operations against it, ISWAP, formerly known as Jamā'at Ahl as-Sunnah lid-Da'wah wa'l-Jihād, continues to assert its position in northeastern Nigeria.
In a portion of the video obtained by SaharaReporters, the three soldiers, who were reportedly captured in Kamuya and Azare, Yobe State, were seen kneeling in an open field. Before their execution, they identified themselves as members of the Nigerian security forces. Moments later, masked insurgents, dressed in military-style fatigues, shot them dead.
According to sources, the execution took place on March 15, 2025, underscoring ISWAP’s continued violent campaign in the region. Since the death of Boko Haram’s former leader, Abubakar Shekau, ISWAP has significantly expanded its influence, particularly around the Lake Chad Basin. Many former Boko Haram fighters have defected to ISWAP, further strengthening its ranks.
Despite repeated claims by the Nigerian Army that the insurgency has been largely subdued, attacks like this highlight the persistent threat posed by ISWAP and other militant groups. Over the years, Boko Haram and ISWAP have been responsible for over 100,000 deaths and the displacement of millions, particularly in the northeastern states of Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe.