The Nigerien army has announced that it has killed Ibrahim Mahamadu, widely known as Boukura, who had led the terrorist group Boko Haram for more than a decade. The operation took place in Chirwa Shilawa, in the Diffa region, a location frequently used by the group as a hideout after attacks in neighboring countries.
In a statement, the army confirmed that the strike occurred on the morning of August 15, 2025, when fighter jets dropped three bombs on Boukura’s camp in Shilawa.
“On the morning of August 15, our army carried out a special operation that resulted in the neutralization of Boukura and his close associates,” the statement said.
Boukura assumed leadership of Boko Haram following the death of Abubakar Shekau over thirteen years ago.
Boko Haram began its activities in 2009 in Nigeria before expanding attacks to neighboring countries, including Niger, Chad, and Cameroon.
According to the United Nations, the group’s actions have killed more than 40,000 civilians and displaced over two million people due to fighting and attacks.
This success by the Nigerien army comes as countries in the region intensify operations against terrorist groups threatening security, particularly in areas surrounding the Lake Chad Basin, where Boko Haram and other armed groups remain highly active.
