Chad’s military makes significant strides against Boko Haram through air strikes
In a statement, President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno revealed that his military had successfully conducted a counter-offensive against Boko Haram, a move prompted by the group’s earlier attack on the Chadian army in the western region near the Nigerian border. The attack resulted in over 40 deaths and numerous injuries.
Deby emphasized the importance of eradicating Boko Haram, committing to the effort in October. Since then, Chad has taken a proactive stance against the terrorist group.
“Our air strikes targeted enemy positions, resulting in significant casualties,” Deby stated. While exact numbers were not disclosed, it is clear that the military’s actions have had a substantial impact.
Chad’s military, along with neighboring countries, has long recognized the importance of combating Boko Haram. The group, led by Abubakar Shekau, first emerged in Nigeria in 2009, claiming responsibility for over 40,000 fatalities. Since then, its activities have spread to surrounding countries.
In 2020, Chad’s military suffered a devastating loss on the Bohoma peninsula of Lake Chad, with an estimated 100 soldiers killed. In response, a multinational force was established, comprising around 8,500 troops from Chad, Nigeria, Niger, and Cameroon.
The force’s mission is twofold: to ensure the safety of the civilian population and to neutralize Boko Haram’s capabilities, ultimately dismantling the group’s infrastructure.
Operational successes have been observed in the Lake Chad region, which serves as a sanctuary for jihadist factions like Boko Haram and the Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP). The region’s unique landscape, featuring extensive waters and swamps, has led to the formation of sanctuaries on islets, making it an attractive haven for the groups.
