Chad and Niger have launched a joint army operation against Boko Haram in Nigeria. It is the first incursion deep into Nigeria by troops from Niger. Chad has already sent troops many kilometres inside and has won territory back near the Nigeria-Cameroon border. Reports suggest a big battle is looming at Gwoza, south-east of Maiduguri.
In recent months, Boko haram has been a threat to security in Nigeria, expanding its attacks across the border to Cameroon, Chad and Niger. Co-operation to end the between Nigeria and its boarders to end Boko haram insurgency in the past has been limited.
Boko haram is an Islamic terrorist group based in Northern Nigeria that forbids western education. Since 2009 the Islamist group has abducted more than 500 men, women and children. In April 2014 the group abducted more than 276 schoolgirls from Chibok, who are yet to be released.
The Nigerian army is racing against a tight deadline to defeat Boko Haram insurgents ahead of the March 28th presidential elections.
Do you think the joint army operation against Boko Haram will bring an end to the insurgent group?
