Map of JNIM and ISSP activity in Benin, Niger and Nigeria borderlands

“𝗔𝗻 𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗮 𝗼𝗳 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗰 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗦𝗮𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗡𝗶𝗴𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗽𝘀
New analysis of data shows how militant networks are expanding southward from the Sahel into the borderlands of Benin, Niger, and Nigeria. Limited state presence, weak border control, and fragmented bandit and hunter groups leave space for expansion.

Forest belts offer concealment, mobility, and staging grounds, while overlapping transborder networks and a diverse ethnic mosaic provide fertile ground for recruitment. Sahelian factions like JNIM and ISSP are pushing southward, as Nigerian groups—Ansaru, ISWAP, and Mahmuda—relocate, form cells, and cooperate tactically.

Most operate clandestinely, with JNIM alone broadcasting its presence. Control over illicit trade routes could strengthen their hold—over time these groups may extend their reach into population centers like Gaya, Malanville, Birnin Kebbi, Sokoto, and Kaduna.”

Follow MENASTREAM on Linkedin. Website: https://menastream.com/