The United States has expanded its counter-terrorism efforts in Nigeria, with a focus on the Sambisa Forest in Borno State. According to top security analyst Brant Philip, the US is currently conducting intelligence and surveillance operations in the region. Philip shared flight tracking data on his X account, which appeared to show a Gulfstream V aircraft flying over Borno State.

The target of these operations is reportedly the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), a militant group known to operate in the North-East and Lake Chad basin regions. ISWAP has been responsible for numerous attacks and kidnappings in recent years, posing a significant threat to regional security.

The Sambisa Forest, a vast and remote area, has long been a stronghold for various militant groups, including ISWAP and Boko Haram. The forest’s dense terrain and lack of infrastructure have made it a challenging environment for military operations.

The US airstrikes against ISIS terrorists in Sokoto State, which preceded the current operations in Borno State, demonstrate the ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in the region. The US has been working closely with Nigerian authorities to strengthen counter-terrorism capabilities and share intelligence.

The latest development underscores the continued threat posed by militant groups in the region and the need for sustained international cooperation to address the issue. As the situation unfolds, it is likely that further details will emerge about the scope and objectives of the US operations in the Sambisa Forest. The success of these efforts will depend on the effectiveness of intelligence gathering and the ability of security forces to target and disrupt militant activities.