Nigerian army rescues 360 hostages from Boko Haram stronghold

Nigerian troops freed 360 people held captive by Boko Haram on Sunday in the southern part of Borno state, in the country’s northeast.

The operation took place in the Mandara mountains, a key area within the jihadist group’s stronghold. The military’s statement confirmed the release, as Abuja continues to escalate its campaign against extremist forces. Last month, Nigerian authorities announced a joint operation with the United States that eliminated 175 fighters from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

Nigeria faces a severe security crisis, particularly in its northern region. More than a decade of jihadist insurgency, alongside rampant kidnappings for ransom and illegal mining activities, keeps destabilising the area. The United Nations reports that the conflict in northeast Nigeria has killed thousands and forced millions from their homes. President Bola Tinubu has repeatedly promised to end the insecurity, but analysts say the measures so far remain inadequate to protect civilians.