Two senior commanders of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), Ya Muhammad and Abou Dawuda, have been confirmed killed in a coordinated military operation in Damboa, Borno State, marking a major tactical victory for Nigerian security forces.

The operation, executed by ground troops and the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), repelled an ISWAP offensive on Damboa town. Intelligence obtained by Zagazola Makama reveals that both commanders were neutralized during targeted airstrikes by Operation Hadin Kai. Ya Muhammad, a top field leader and Ameer Fiya of Garno, initially escaped with weapons but was killed in a subsequent strike after hiding in the Bula Bukarti forest.

His death was later confirmed by fellow insurgents who recovered his body, dealing a heavy psychological and operational blow to the group.

Ya Muhammad’s Track Record and ISWAP Structure

Ya Muhammad had close ties to key ISWAP figures such as Abu Ayuba, Abu Khalid, and Ameer Sarki, and played a central role in attacks across Wajiroko, Sabon Gari, and Damboa. His elimination has reportedly sent shockwaves through ISWAP's leadership.

Meanwhile, intelligence reports suggest a broader effort by ISWAP to regroup. Commanders such as Abu Hafsat (Mangusum), bomb-maker Suleimana Suwurti (Gorgore), and several regional Ameers—including Jaish Huzaifa in Gargash—are said to be mobilizing fighters in preparation for renewed offensives.

Nigerian Forces Maintain Pressure in the Northeast

In response, Nigerian security forces have intensified surveillance operations, particularly in the Lake Chad Basin and Sambisa Forest. Military sources confirm ongoing day-and-night air and ground patrols designed to intercept any regrouping or retaliatory actions by ISWAP.

The killing of Ya Muhammad and Abou Dawuda is seen as a significant disruption to ISWAP’s command-and-control network in Borno and Yobe.