How ISWAP emerged as the dominant jihadist force in Africa’s Lake Chad basin
The article details the rise of Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) as the dominant jihadist force in the Lake Chad basin, surpassing Boko Haram. It traces ISWAP's origins from a split within Boko Haram, highlighting its more structured command, diversified revenue streams (taxing economic activities), and strategic focus on military targets rather than indiscriminate violence against civilians. The article also discusses the regional security challenges posed by ISWAP, the involvement of international forces (U.S. African Command), and the formation of the Multinational Joint Task Force by Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Cameroon, and Benin to counter terrorism in the region.
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