Chad Declares 20-Day State of Emergency in Lake Chad Region After Boko Haram Attacks

Chad has declared a 20-day state of emergency in the Lake Chad region after a surge in deadly attacks blamed on Boko Haram. The decision follows recent ambushes that killed at least 26 soldiers, including senior officers, and a major raid on a military base that left dozens dead. Authorities say the move is aimed at strengthening security and counterterrorism operations amid worsening violence and civilian displacement in the region.

Chad has declared a 20-day state of emergency in the violence-hit Lake Chad region following a surge in deadly attacks blamed on the jihadist group Boko Haram. The announcement was made on Thursday after a series of assaults that have worsened insecurity in the area and led to significant military and civilian losses.
The decision comes in the wake of intensified violence that has left at least 26 army personnel dead, including two senior generals, after recent ambushes targeting security forces. The attacks have sparked nationwide mourning and prompted the government to escalate counterterrorism operations across the region.
Government spokesperson Gassim Cherif said authorities reviewed the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation before declaring the emergency. He noted that renewed Boko Haram attacks, growing civilian displacement, and increasing threats to lives and property made the move necessary to restore order and strengthen military response efforts.
The latest wave of violence followed a deadly raid on the Barka Tolorom military base in the Lake Chad area, where at least 24 Chadian soldiers were killed and several others injured, according to military sources. The attack is considered one of the most serious recent assaults on government forces in the region.
Cherif also stated that President Mahamat Idriss Deby expressed appreciation to the government of Nigeria for its continued support and coordination in regional counterterrorism efforts. Cooperation between Lake Chad basin countries remains a key part of the fight against insurgent groups operating in the area.
The Lake Chad region, which borders Cameroon, Nigeria, Niger, and Chad, has long been a stronghold for Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters. Its remote islands and difficult terrain have made it a challenging environment for security operations.
Despite years of military campaigns by regional forces, attacks in the Lake Chad basin continue to occur, often targeting soldiers, civilians, and infrastructure. The latest escalation highlights ongoing instability and the persistent threat posed by armed extremist groups in the region.