Boko Haram Claims Victory, Threatens Borno Caliphate

Boko Haram Claims Responsibility for Attack on Ngoshe Military Base

Boko Haram, a notorious terrorist group operating in northern Nigeria, has publicly claimed responsibility for an attack on a military base in Ngoshe, located in the Gwoza Local Government Area (LGA) of Borno State. The group has vowed to hold the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations at the town’s central mosque, which it has since taken over.

According to reports, the terrorists launched their attack on Wednesday night, following the Muslim community’s breaking of their fast. The assault resulted in the deaths of both soldiers and civilians, with hundreds of residents being abducted. Sources have revealed that among those killed were the chief Iman and several elders of the community. In addition, numerous homes, as well as military bases and equipment, were set ablaze during the attack.

A video circulating online, which was reviewed by Daily Trust on Friday, features a group of five young men who identified themselves as members of Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad. This faction is led by Imam Ubu Umaima, and they claimed responsibility for the attack on Ngoshe.

The leader of the group, speaking in Hausa, described how soldiers were beheaded during the attack. He also announced the group’s intention to rename the town “Daular Islam” (Caliphate), signaling their broader ambitions to establish a new regime in the region.

“In the name of Allah, the most beneficial, and the most merciful. We thank God Almighty for helping us to succeed in our mission in Ngoshe. And as you can see today, 16/9/1447 (Thursday 6th March, 2026), we are inside the central mosque in Ngoshe.”

He continued:

“People in this town are saying that we cannot conquer Ngoshe. With the help of God, we have already conquered the town and by the grace of God, we are going to stay in Ngoshe and change its name to a caliphate. And at the end of Ramadan, we will observe the Eid-el-Fitr prayer inside Ngoshe.”

The leader further stated:

“We have slaughtered them, abducted their women and children and enslaved them. They are our legal property to use as ordained by God.”

He concluded:

“We have conquered Ngoshe and will remain here, we are willing to die for this course. It’s our third day in this town and we will extend the fight and reclaim more places from here to Maiduguri, up to Abuja.”

This latest attack underscores the ongoing threat posed by Boko Haram in the region. The group has long been associated with violent attacks, kidnappings, and the destruction of communities. Their actions have created a climate of fear and instability in Borno State and surrounding areas.

Key Details from the Attack

• Date of Attack: Wednesday night, following the breaking of the fast during Ramadan.
• Casualties: Soldiers and civilians were killed, including the chief Iman and several elders.
• Abductions: Hundreds of residents were taken, including women and children.
• Military Damage: Several homes, military bases, and equipment were destroyed.
• Claim of Responsibility: A video released by Boko Haram members confirmed their involvement in the attack.

Implications of the Attack

The attack on Ngoshe represents a significant escalation in Boko Haram’s activities. By taking control of the central mosque and vowing to hold Eid celebrations there, the group is attempting to legitimize its presence and assert its influence over the local population. This move could have serious implications for the security and stability of the region.

Moreover, the group’s declaration to expand its operations from Ngoshe to Maiduguri and even Abuja signals a potential shift in their strategy. If they are able to consolidate their control in these areas, the threat to national security could increase significantly.

Ongoing Challenges

Despite efforts by Nigerian security forces to combat Boko Haram, the group continues to carry out attacks with increasing frequency and brutality. The lack of effective governance and infrastructure in many parts of the north has made it easier for the group to operate and gain support among local populations.