RismadarVoice Reporters
November 12, 2026
The Islamic State terrorist organisation has reportedly introduced financial incentives encouraging fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) to attack military bases and seize weapons across Nigeria and neighbouring countries.
A new investigation by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) revealed that ISWAP operates a structured payment system that rewards fighters according to the military equipment recovered during attacks.
The findings were based on information obtained from former fighters and individuals familiar with the group’s financial operations.
According to the research, the Islamic State provides funding for payments linked to captured weapons, ammunition and military vehicles.
The report stated that ISWAP retains approximately one-third of the value of recovered equipment, while the remaining proceeds are distributed among fighters who participated in the operations.
Researchers explained that the financial incentives have contributed to ISWAP’s continued attacks on military installations across the Lake Chad Basin.
The study also found that some fighters receive monthly salaries of approximately ₦75,000, slightly above Nigeria’s ₦70,000 national minimum wage.
Former members reportedly told researchers that financial rewards played an important role in attracting and retaining recruits, particularly those motivated by economic hardship rather than ideology.
The investigation further identified alleged international financing networks connecting the Middle East with West and Central Africa.
According to the researchers, funds are reportedly transferred through informal financial networks before reaching ISWAP-controlled areas around Lake Chad.
The report referenced previous international sanctions and convictions involving individuals accused of facilitating financial transactions for terrorist organisations.
It also highlighted differences between ISWAP and rival Boko Haram factions, noting that their methods of financing operations influence their patterns of violence and relationships with local communities.
Security researchers warned that ISWAP’s organised financial structure could enable the group to sustain operations even after the deaths of senior commanders.
They recommended stronger financial intelligence cooperation, improved security around military installations and coordinated international efforts to disrupt terrorist financing networks.
The findings suggest that counterterrorism operations must address not only armed fighters and their leadership but also the financial systems sustaining recruitment and attacks.
However, the specific payment arrangements and financial routes described in the study were based partly on accounts from former fighters and have not all been independently verified.
