Fresh intelligence from Borno State indicates escalating clashes between Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province, as both factions battle for control of the Sambisa Forest and surrounding areas.

Sources said the confrontations have intensified in recent days, reflecting deepening tensions between the rival insurgent groups.

According to intelligence reports, a communication allegedly occurred at about 8:43 p.m. on April 30 between suspected fighters identified as Ba Musa and Ya Kazalla, believed to be operating within the Sambisa axis of Bama Local Government Area.

The exchange, cited by security analyst Zagazola Makama, reportedly revealed disagreements over narratives surrounding recent clashes.

Kazalla was said to have questioned reports suggesting that ISWAP had recorded major victories, while Musa reportedly dismissed the claims, insisting that Boko Haram inflicted significant casualties on its rival.

He allegedly claimed that about 100 ISWAP fighters were killed during a confrontation on April 29 within Sambisa Forest, and that seven more were killed in a separate clash around Molai in Konduga Local Government Area.

Musa further claimed that Boko Haram suffered minimal losses, with only one fighter reportedly killed.

However, security observers caution that such claims remain difficult to independently verify, as both factions are known to engage in propaganda to project strength.

The Sambisa Forest and adjoining areas, including the Lake Chad corridor, continue to serve as key operational strongholds for insurgent activities, even as security forces sustain counterterrorism efforts in the region.

Analysts note that the growing infighting presents a mixed outlook. While it introduces volatility and unpredictability, it may also weaken the operational cohesion of insurgent groups in the area.