More than 23 fighters have reportedly been killed in renewed clashes between rival Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) factions in the Sambisa Forest area of Borno State.
The fighting reportedly lasted for two days as the rival groups battled over territory and influence within the forest and surrounding areas.
The latest confrontation is part of the continuing rivalry between Boko Haram and ISWAP, two insurgent factions that have repeatedly fought one another despite their shared history and extremist ideology.
Rival groups continue fighting
Reports indicate that the latest clashes occurred in the Sambisa Forest, a longstanding stronghold for Boko Haram and other insurgent groups operating in northeastern Nigeria.
The conflict between the factions has previously resulted in significant casualties as both sides compete for control of territory, fighters, resources and operational influence.
Security and conflict analysts have documented an escalating pattern of clashes between Boko Haram and ISWAP in northeastern Nigeria, with the rivalry particularly affecting areas around the Lake Chad Basin and Sambisa Forest.
Casualty figures yet to be independently confirmed
More than 23 deaths have been reported from the latest fighting, but details about the exact number of casualties on each side remain unclear.
There has also been no independent confirmation of the reported figure from Nigerian military authorities at the time of publication.
The reported deaths nonetheless point to continued internal conflict among armed groups operating in the region.
What the clashes mean for security
The infighting could temporarily weaken the operational capacity of the factions involved, particularly if experienced fighters and commanders are among those killed.
However, previous clashes between Boko Haram and ISWAP have demonstrated that losses on one side can also lead to attempts to recruit new fighters, seize additional territory or retaliate against rival camps.
Security forces continue to conduct counter-insurgency operations across Borno and other parts of the North-East as authorities work to prevent terrorist groups from expanding their areas of operation.
For communities in and around the Sambisa Forest, the latest fighting adds another layer of insecurity to an area that has endured years of insurgency.
The situation remains fluid, with further clashes between the rival factions possible as both groups continue their struggle for dominance.
