While Boko Haram is capable of striking against Nigeria, the terrorist organization "no longer controls towns and villages."
So says Fr. Patrick Tor Alumuku, director of Social Communications in the Archdiocese of Abuja.
According to Fides, Boko Haram recently attacked several villages in northern Nigeria, Cameroon and Chad, killing 43 people. The attacks are in retaliation to the formation of a military coalition by the three countries to take down the terrorist group.
"President Muhammadu Buhari said it clearly a few days ago on television, saying that Boko Haram is under strong military pressure and is reacting to prove it is still be able to hit," Fr. Alumuku said.
The Nigerian president launched an offensive against the terrorist group; a move that, according to a recent survey, 70% of Nigerians approve.
"Boko Haram is no longer what it was once, it is no longer able to occupy entire areas. Its men are hiding in the forest in northern Nigeria or have moved to neighboring states, as demonstrated by the recent assaults in Cameroon, Chad and Niger," said Fr. Alumuku noted.