The Nigerian military has announced that 76 commanders of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have surrendered as ongoing counterterrorism operations continue to weaken insurgent groups in the North-East.
to military authorities, the former commanders voluntarily laid down their arms during intensified operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks operating across the region. The development is being viewed as a significant breakthrough in the country's efforts to restore peace and security.
Security officials said the surrender followed sustained military offensives, intelligence-led operations, and continuous pressure on terrorist hideouts, forcing many insurgents to abandon the fight.
The surrendered individuals are expected to undergo screening, profiling, and participation in the government's deradicalisation and rehabilitation programmes in line with existing procedures.
Military authorities reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining pressure on terrorist groups while urging remaining insurgents to surrender and embrace peace.
Security analysts say the latest surrender could further weaken ISWAP's operational capacity, although they cautioned that security forces must remain vigilant against possible regrouping attempts.
The military also assured Nigerians that operations against terrorism and other violent criminal groups would continue until lasting peace is achieved across affected communities
