Nigerian Defence HQ denies ceasefire with Boko Haram and ISWAP

Nigerian military denies ceasefire with Boko Haram and ISWAP

The Nigerian Defence Headquarters released a declaration on 5 November 2026, denying claims that the federal administration had signed a truce with Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), or any other terrorist entity. The denial was made public by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, during a joint security briefing in Abuja.

The statement came after a media report that the government had signed a secret truce with the Boko Haram faction led by Bakura Doro. The account indicated that the pause in hostilities had been active since June and was anticipated to continue, noting that it had brought relative stability to sections of the North-East for roughly three months.

Background

For multiple years, the Nigerian armed forces have conducted continuous campaigns targeting Boko Haram, ISWAP, armed bandits, and other criminal organizations. In recent months, the armed forces have recorded a number of successes, including the neutralisation of terrorists, the arrest of suspects and the rescue of kidnapped victims. These operations have been described by the military as evidence that it is not relenting.

The claim of a ceasefire with the Bakura Doro faction was based on statements from three individuals who allegedly had contacts with senior Boko Haram members. The report suggested that the truce had been in place since June 2026 and was expected to be extended.

Why it matters

The denial by the Defence Headquarters is significant because it clarifies the government’s official stance on negotiations with terrorist groups. If a ceasefire had existed, it could have implications for the security situation in the North‑East, where Boko Haram and ISWAP have been active for decades. The statement also underscores the military’s commitment to continuing operations against all armed groups, including kidnappers and other criminal elements that threaten Nigerian citizens.

Major General Uba emphasised that the military’s operations are not limited to Boko Haram or ISWAP. He cautioned that those participating in illegal acts would either be eliminated via legal military actions or face legal consequences. The statement was intended to reassure the public that the armed forces remain focused on maintaining security and countering insurgency.

What happens next

The Defence Headquarters has not announced any forthcoming changes to its operational strategy. The statement suggests that the military will continue to sustain pressure on all criminal groups across the country. No further details were provided about potential future negotiations or ceasefire agreements.

The denial also came after the New Humanitarian had reported the alleged ceasefire, and the Premium Times reiterated the military’s position. Both reports confirm that the Defence Headquarters has categorically rejected the existence of any ceasefire with Boko Haram or ISWAP.

The military’s stance indicates that it will maintain its current approach of intensified offensives, mapping of potential relocation sites for armed groups and continued engagement with all criminal elements. No additional dates or decisions were mentioned in the sources.