Islamic State West Africa Province

Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), an affiliate of the Islamic State group, is a militant organization operating primarily in northeastern Nigeria. They are currently newsworthy due to a recent surge in attacks and abductions. Recent events include a large-scale abduction of over 300 people in northeastern Nigeria, and a separate attack in Borno state that resulted in a high number of civilian casualties. Additionally, a bomb blast in a mosque in Borno state killed five and injured 35. In response to the escalating violence, the Nigerian government requested and received support from the United States, with approximately 100 US troops arriving to train the Nigerian military. ISWAP's activities pose a significant threat to regional security in West Africa, prompting international concern and security cooperation efforts.