The Lake Chad Basin has again become a theatre of war as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters engage in deadly battles for dominance.
According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, the renewed hostilities have left several insurgents dead and communities in fear of fresh violence.
Between November 5 and 8, 2025, rival jihadist factions fought for control of key island settlements across Abadam and Kukawa Local Government Areas in Borno State.
The clashes, which occurred around Sahel 1, Dogon Chuku, and the riverine basins of Tumbun Gini, Tumbun Dalo, and Dumba, have been described as some of the most intense in recent months.
Makama’s report revealed that Boko Haram commanders Hassan Buduma and Mohd Hassan led multiple coordinated attacks using motorized boats armed with heavy weapons.
“The offensive was an amphibious attack in insurgent style,” the report noted, adding that ISWAP fighters were forced to abandon several bases and retreat to mainland hideouts around Ali Jillimari, Metele, and Gudumbali.
Although the number of casualties remains uncertain, intelligence sources confirmed that several bodies were seen floating in the waters while others were hastily buried in shallow graves.
Furthermore, the report highlighted Boko Haram’s intent to completely wipe out ISWAP from the Lake Chad islands and seize critical smuggling and supply routes.
These routes, connecting Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon, reportedly generate millions of naira through illegal taxes on fishermen and traders.
ISWAP had previously maintained control over the area since the death of Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau in 2021.
However, as water levels in the Lake Chad Basin continue to recede, new land corridors and fishing settlements have reemerged, creating fresh flashpoints for conflict.
Security experts have warned that the renewed hostility signals a shift from sporadic clashes to a sustained territorial war.
“We expect more ambushes, roadside bombs, and attacks on key transport routes linking Metele, Kangarwa, and the Maiduguri–Damasak highway,” a security source said.
Meanwhile, residents in Abadam and Kukawa are bracing for tougher times as both factions are expected to intensify retaliatory raids, targeting fishermen, traders, and transporters.
