#News: 'Tide turned' against Boko Haram

[BBC]

 Nigeria's presidential and parliamentary elections have been postponed by six week to 28 March to give troops more time to beat back Boko Haram.

Mr Jonathan is facing a strong challenge from ex-military ruler Muhammadu Buhari in the poll.  

Chadian troops have played a key role in helping Nigeria's military regain territory.

Military chiefs from Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, Niger and Benin, are currently meeting to discuss plans to create an 8,700-strong force to fight Boko Haram.

 Boko Haram at a glance

 

• Founded in 2002, initially focused on opposing Western-style education - Boko Haram means "Western education is forbidden" in the Hausa language
• Launched military operations in 2009 to create Islamic state
• Thousands killed, mostly in north-eastern Nigeria - has also attacked police and UN headquarters in capital, Abuja
• Abducted hundreds, including at least 200 schoolgirls
• Controls several north-eastern towns
• Launched attacks on neighbouring states

Why is Boko Haram so strong?

Soldiers without weapons


Source: BBC