The leadership of the Islamic State West Africa Province is reportedly facing growing pressure following the killing of a senior commander known as Wal-Gege during a military operation near the Gargash area in Dikwa Local Government Area of Borno State.

Security sources indicated that the commander was neutralised during an operation carried out by troops engaged in ongoing counter-insurgency efforts in the North-East.

Wal-Gege was said to be a key figure within the group’s operational structure and played an important role in coordinating activities within parts of the Lake Chad region.

The operation forms part of sustained military offensives aimed at disrupting insurgent networks, dismantling hideouts and targeting senior commanders linked to terrorist activities in the region.

Reports suggest that the death of the commander has created uncertainty within sections of the group’s leadership, with concerns emerging over the impact on command and operational coordination.

Military operations under Operation Hadin Kai have intensified in recent months, resulting in the elimination, capture and surrender of several insurgent commanders and fighters.

Security analysts say continued pressure on the group’s leadership structure could further weaken its ability to organise attacks and maintain control over its remaining strongholds.

Troops are expected to sustain offensive operations across affected areas as part of efforts to degrade terrorist capabilities and restore stability in the North-East.

The latest development adds to a series of recent setbacks suffered by insurgent groups operating in the Lake Chad Basin, where security forces have continued intelligence-led operations against terrorist enclaves