By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Nigerian Army has declared Abu Musa Al-Mangawi Baa Shuwa-Wali, the Governor of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and his deputy, Amirul Jaish Muhammad Jidda, wanted after forensic analysis of intelligence devices recovered during recent military operations in the Lake Chad region. Acting Military Information Officer of the Northeast Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), Captain Muhammed Goni, announced the development on Wednesday, urging Nigerians to provide credible information that would help security agencies arrest the terrorist leaders and strengthen ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
Military Identifies Senior ISWAP Commanders
Captain Goni said Operation Hadin Kai achieved another major breakthrough after successful offensive operations against ISWAP terrorists in Northern Borno State.
According to him, troops recovered high-value intelligence materials, including a camcorder allegedly used by ISWAP to produce propaganda videos and document operational activities.
The military later conducted forensic analysis on the recovered devices. Consequently, investigators identified several senior ISWAP commanders operating along the Mangari–Metele–Dogon Chukun axis near the Lake Chad Basin.
The affected locations fall within Abadam and Kukawa Local Government Areas of Borno State.
Wanted Terrorists Named
The Army identified the following terrorist leaders:
- Abu Musa Al-Mangawi Baa Shuwa-Wali – Governor of ISWAP.
- Muhammad Jidda, also known as “The One-Handed Man” – Deputy Governor and Amirul Jaish.
- Hamad Abu Hanifa – Amirul-Fiya of ISWAP.
Goni described Abu Musa Al-Mangawi as the most wanted ISWAP commander currently operating within the Lake Chad Basin.
Army Announces Financial Rewards
The Nigerian Army announced substantial rewards for credible intelligence leading to the arrest of the terrorist leaders.
Authorities placed a ₦50 million bounty on Ibn Muhammad, commander of ISWAP’s Amniyya unit.
They also announced a ₦10 million reward for information leading to the arrest of Muhammad Jidda, commander of the group’s Jaish unit.
Goni assured Nigerians that anyone whose actionable intelligence leads to the arrest of the suspects would receive a substantial financial reward.
Army Assures Informants of Confidentiality
The Army promised to protect the identities of all informants. It also assured the public that security agencies would treat every credible report with strict confidentiality.
Goni urged residents to support ongoing counter-terrorism operations by sharing timely and reliable intelligence.
He advised citizens to report useful information through recognised security channels or contact the military via 0708 498 8859.
However, he warned members of the public against confronting or attempting to arrest the suspects themselves because doing so could put lives at risk.
Military Intensifies Counter-Terrorism Operations
The declaration comes as the Nigerian military increases pressure on ISWAP and other terrorist groups operating across the Northeast.
Operation Hadin Kai continues to conduct coordinated offensives aimed at dismantling terrorist networks, disrupting their operations, and restoring security in the Lake Chad region.
