Author Archives: Laura Grossman


Suicide bombers strike Maiduguri

Continuing its offensive against Maiduguri, Boko Haram is suspected of launching two bomb attacks in the Borno state capital on Monday. Over 30 people were killed as two female suicide bombers targeted a popular market.


Boko Haram rolls with the punches, remains a threat

As coalition forces have pushed Boko Haram from its former strongholds, the terrorist group has retained the ability to strike back. Its relatively new official ties to the Islamic State may enhance the group’s longevity, creating a more difficult security environment for Nigeria and its partners.


Boko Haram kidnaps hundreds from Damasak

As forces from Nigeria, Chad, and Niger continue to push Boko Haram from its strongholds in northeastern Nigeria, the group has continued to inflict damage upon civilians. Earlier this month, Boko Haram kidnapped over 400 young women and children from the Nigerian town of Damasak near the border with Niger.





Boko Haram continues to slaughter Nigerians

Boko Haram has continued its murderous rampage against civilians and security personnel. While concentrated in northeastern Nigeria, the group’s recent attacks have also targeted Cameroon and its security apparatus.












Analysis: Boko Haram focuses on seizing territory

Boko Haram is seeking to hold territory in northeastern Nigeria. In a recent video, Boko Haram’s leader declared that his jihadists rule over the town of Gwoza as a “state among the Islamic states.” This was widely interpreted to mean an Islamic caliphate, but that does not appear to be the case.


Boko Haram’s new caliphate

In its ongoing offensive, Boko Haram has taken control of parts of northern Nigeria, establishing what its leader Abubakar Shekau calls a “caliphate” in the group’s latest video release.





Boko Haram gains ground

Launching more attacks, Boko Haram hoisted its flag in a northeastern Nigerian town where it recently killed over 100 civilians.


Boko Haram leader fires back at Twitter campaign

In a new video claiming responsibility for recent attacks, Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau mocked the campaign to bring the kidnapped girls back, while threatening local leaders and calling for the release of Boko Haram members currently held in Nigerian prisons. A Nigerian military airstrike attempted to counter the latest Boko Haram attack in Borno state.