Nigerian Army Appoints New Commander Amid Surge in Insurgent Attacks

The Nigerian Army has appointed Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar as the new commander overseeing counterinsurgency operations in the northeast, following a surge in deadly attacks by Boko Haram and its splinter group, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

Abubakar becomes the 15th commander in charge of the mission, bringing experience from previous roles as deputy commandant of the Nigerian Defence College and head of a major security operation in north-central Nigeria.

The appointment comes amid concerns over renewed insurgent activity in the region, though the army has not directly linked the leadership change to the recent wave of violence.

Over the past four months, the northeast has seen a sharp increase in attacks, including a recent ISWAP-led assault in Borno State that killed at least 26 people. Security experts warn of a potential resurgence by the jihadist groups, whose tactics now include armed drones and roadside explosives.

The insurgency, which has lasted over 15 years, continues to claim civilian and military lives, raising alarms among local authorities. Governor Babangida Zulum recently expressed concern that ongoing kidnappings and attacks suggest Borno State may be losing control of key areas.