The Nigerien army announced on Thursday that during an operation in the Lake Chad basin, it had successfully eliminated the notorious leader of the jihadist group Boko Haram, known by the alias Bakura, whose real name was Ibrahim Mahamadu.
The operation took place on 15 August, 2025, on Silawa Island, in the Diffa region of southeastern Niger, an area bordering Nigeria, Chad, and Cameroon.
According to Niger’s General Staff, the mission was described as “surgical” and “precisely executed,” resulting in the neutralisation of the dangerous leader, who was responsible for numerous attacks and acts of terrorism in the region.
Boko Haram, founded in Nigeria and active across the Lake Chad basin, has caused thousands of deaths and widespread destruction, and remains a serious threat to the security of the Sahel countries.
This announcement comes amid increased military presence in the Sahel, as regional countries strengthen their efforts to combat jihadist groups and ensure civilian safety. Analysts say the elimination of Bakura could deal a significant blow to Boko Haram, though they warn that the organization’s networks and branches may continue operations.
The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with security experts emphasizing that regional cooperation remains crucial in the fight against terrorism and the maintenance of stability in this geopolitically sensitive area.
