ISWAP Claims Responsibility for Killing Four Christians in Borno State, Nigeria

Attack in Borno State

The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has claimed responsibility for the killing of four Christians in an attack that took place on November 11, 2025, in Borno State, north-eastern Nigeria. The armed assault occurred near the town of Dille. According to an ISWAP social media post, terrorists with machine guns 'attacked a number of Christians' leading to their deaths.

Broader Regional Violence

This incident is part of a wider pattern of violence perpetrated by Islamist groups, including ISWAP and Boko Haram, across northern and Middle Belt Nigeria. These groups have been responsible for the deaths of more than 45,000 Christians since 2009. The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, John Joseph Hayab, has characterized the ongoing killings as a 'genocide against Christians,' stating, 'We have buried too many for anyone to pretend otherwise.'

Recent ISWAP Activities

In addition to the attack near Dille, ISWAP also targeted the Christian community of Dogoba in neighboring Adamawa State. In that incident, the group reportedly captured three individuals and burned down 16 houses and two church buildings. The persistent attacks by ISWAP highlight the severe security challenges faced by communities in the Lake Chad region, where the group continues to exert influence and engage in violent acts against civilians and security forces.

Impact on Communities

The continuous insurgency has led to significant displacement and disruption of livelihoods for thousands of people in the affected areas. Reports indicate that ISWAP's tactics have evolved, including the use of advanced technologies like drones, posing complex challenges to counterinsurgency efforts. The group's extremist ideology targets both Christians and some Muslims who do not align with their beliefs, aiming to destabilize the region.