The Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which includes troops from Nigeria, Niger Republic, Chad and Cameroon, is dialing up the pressure on Boko Haram, launching a major offensive to snuff out the Islamist militant group’s remaining presence in the Lake Chad Basin. Residents of Nigeria’s Northeast and Cameroon’s Far North can expect to see a beefed-up military presence as the operation unfolds, according to an MNJTF press release.
This intensified campaign follows recent gains against Boko Haram. The MNJTF reports a weakened insurgency, with some fighters surrendering and weapons shipments being thwarted.
“This surge is designed to bolster the efforts of various national operations and eradicate terrorists and their enclaves within the MNJTF’s areas of operations,” declared the MNJTF in a statement.
Authorities are assuring residents that the increased troop presence should not raise concerns. Instead, they are urging cooperation and any information that could aid in capturing Boko Haram stragglers.
The MNJTF says the ultimate objective of this offensive is “to cleanse the Lake Chad basin of all terrorists” and ensure lasting peace and stability across the region.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
