ISWAP Reshuffles Leadership in Southern Lake Chad Region Amid Surge in Attacks
By: Zagazola Makama
Intelligence reports have revealed a significant reshuffle within the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) hierarchy, potentially linked to the recent surge in attacks on military locations across the Lake Chad region.
The position of overall commander for the Southern Lake Chad Basin Region Authority (LCRBA) was recently declared vacant, prompting a leadership change.
Abu Usman, also known as Usman Russia, who previously held the role of Amirul Fiya (Chief Military Commander) in the Southern LCRBA, is believed to have been neutralized in recent operations. He has been replaced by Abu Saleh, a key ISWAP figure previously stationed in Tumbun Gini, Abadam Local Government Area.
Before his new appointment, Abu Saleh served as a Kheed in Tumbun Gini. His promotion to overall commander came with a declaration by ISWAP leaders that the position would be filled by an individual capable of executing at least four significant attacks on military locations within a month. Abu Saleh reportedly volunteered, vowing to meet the challenge.
Shortly after his appointment,In October 2024, Abu Saleh, inaugurated a team of about 150 Special Forces led by a commander known as Abu Ubaida in a meeting that took place in Kangarwa and Dogon Chikun believed to be the stronghold of the ISWAP.
This unit has been mobilized with the specific intent of executing coordinated attacks on military locations which is currently happening.
Abu Ubaida was appointed as the lead of this offensive, with four additional commanders under his direct control: Abu Ali, Ibn Mustapha
Abu Nazir and Goni Ali.
Among the fighters morethan 30 have volunteered to become suicide bombers. They have prepared and positioned highly volatile SVBIEDs with the apparent intention of deploying them at troops.
These commanders are organized to conduct operations under the broader oversight of Abu Saleh with his base in Jibularam and is responsible for managing all tactical and operational activities within this deployment.
The families of the deployed fighters, specifically their wives, have been relocated to the Hisbah center in Tumbumma Babba, where provisions for their care have been arranged.
