ISWAP has suffered a major loss after the terrorist group confirmed the death of one of its most senior operatives, Abu Salim al-Barnawi, following a failed attack on a Nigerian military base last week.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the Islamic State West Africa Province circulated an internal obituary announcing the death of the veteran raid commander and chief photographer, confirming that he was among the insurgents killed after Nigerian troops repelled the assault.
Intelligence sources described Abu Salim al-Barnawi as one of ISWAP’s most prominent media operatives. He served as the group’s chief photographer and videographer, documenting its combat operations and producing propaganda materials used to recruit fighters, mobilise supporters and boost the morale of its members.
Before joining ISWAP’s media unit, the deceased reportedly commanded several cross-border attacks into neighbouring Cameroon, where he led operations against security forces.
He later moved into the group’s media structure and became a key figure in producing and distributing operational videos and other propaganda materials.
ISWAP’s confirmation of his death came days after Nigerian troops successfully repelled the attempted attack on the military base, killing several insurgents during the operation.
Security sources described Abu Salim’s death as a major setback for ISWAP’s propaganda network, given his strategic role in documenting and publicising the group’s activities.
The sources added that the elimination of the senior operative highlights the sustained pressure being exerted on ISWAP through ongoing military operations across Nigeria’s North-East.
