Borno: 25-year-old ISWAP fighter leaves terrorist group, surrenders to troops
A 25-year-old man, suspected of being a fighter for the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), has surrendered to military forces in the Monguno Local Government Area of Borno State, Nigeria. The surrender follows approximately eight months of involvement with the extremist group.
The individual has been identified as Ali Gambo Kanuri, a resident of Ngarinna village in the Monguno area. According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, who reported the development on Saturday, August 15, 2026, Gambo was recruited into ISWAP by a friend approximately eight months ago.
After experiencing disillusionment with the group’s ideology and lifestyle, Gambo chose to leave. Following his surrender, he was transferred to the appropriate authorities in accordance with procedures for individuals who voluntarily depart from terrorist organizations.
Gambo successfully made his way out of the territory controlled by the extremist group and approached troops in Monguno town, where he is now in custody for further processing.
