By Boris Esono Nwenfor
The United States Embassy in Yaoundé has sturdily condemned the March 24 terrorist attack that claimed the lives of Cameroonian soldiers deployed to Nigeria in support of the Multinational Joint Task Force in the Lake Chad Basin.
Cameroonian troops are commonly stationed across the border in Nigeria as part of anti-jihadist operations around Wulgo, which is near the volatile Lake Chad – home to both Islamic State and Boko Haram fighters.
The militants had disguised themselves as herders and traders in a nearby city and then infiltrated Wulgo to attack its surrounding military positions, said two intelligence sources.
In an official statement, the U.S. Embassy expressed deep condolences to the people of Cameroon, honouring the fallen soldiers for their bravery and sacrifice in the fight against terrorism.
“On behalf of the American people, we extend our deepest condolences for the tragic loss of Cameroonian soldiers who gave their lives in defence of Cameroon and the region,” the statement read.
The embassy praised the commitment of these soldiers, emphasizing that their dedication to regional security would not be forgotten.
“Their sacrifice stands as a powerful testament to their unwavering commitment to the safety and security of Cameroon and the region. They will not be forgotten, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations,” the statement continued.
The attack, which occurred in Nigeria, highlights the ongoing security threats in the Lake Chad Basin, where Cameroon and other regional forces are actively combating extremist groups.
The U.S. Embassy reaffirmed its solidarity with Cameroon during this difficult time, standing with the families and citizens mourning the loss of their compatriots.
The Multinational Joint Task Force, comprising troops from Cameroon, Nigeria, Chad, Niger, and Benin, plays a crucial role in counterterrorism operations in the region. The attack underscores the dangers faced by soldiers engaged in these missions.
While no group has officially claimed responsibility for the attack, similar incidents in the past have been linked to Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), both of which remain active threats in the region.
Since 2009, jihadist violence in northeast Nigeria has killed 40,000 people and displaced 2.3 million, according to the UN, with the conflict spilling into neighbouring countries.
The Lake Chad region in particular – stretching across Nigeria, Niger, Chad and Cameroon – has become a jihadist stronghold, disrupting fishing, farming and herding, on which the 40 million people who live there depend.
However, officials have complained about a lack of coordination in the multi-country coalition fighting militants in the region, particularly as Nigeria and Niger have seen relations deteriorate after a coup toppled Niamey’s civilian government in 2023.
Since losing its Sambisa stronghold in Nigeria in 2021 to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), a rival offshoot, Boko Haram has shifted its presence to areas around Lake Chad as well as Wulgo, Waza, Gwoza, Pulka the Mandara mountains on the border with Cameroon.
Wulgo and Waza have been repeatedly targeted by Boko Haram, who have kidnapped and killed loggers, herders and scrap metal scavengers they accuse of spying on them for the military or local militias.
