In Nigeria, the Islamic State West African Province Gains Steam

Oct 15, 2019 | 09:30 GMT

Soldiers take snapshots of vehicles allegedly belonging to ISWAP in Baga, Nigeria, on Aug. 2, 2019.

(AUDU MARTE/AFP/Getty Images)

Highlights

After a recent attack in Nigeria, ISWAP militants reportedly roamed around a town for several hours and faced no opposition from security forces.
A 2019 U.N. report said one faction commands up to 3,000 fighters, has improved its financial outlook and has developed a drone capability.
The army's move to larger bases may help stem the loss of men, weapons and equipment, but it will only strengthen ISWAP in the long run.

The army, faced with deteriorating morale, is pulling back to 'supercamps' and leaving civilians and aid organizations vulnerable....

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