Retaking Baga is deeply significant for the Nigerian military because this is the headquarters for the four neighbouring countries fighting Boko Haram.

When they seized it early in January, Boko Haram killed hundreds of locals and left their fighters in control.

Nigerian defence spokesperson Major-General Chris Olukolade says many terrorists had drowned in Lake Chad as troops advanced on Baga.

The jihadis escaped to many parts of Nigeria and regions near its borders.

The government troops, still engaged in mopping up operations, had to negotiate their way through minefields to get into Baga.

International news organisations are reporting cautiously on any victory claimed by President Goodluck Jonathan who’s facing a tough election next month.

The post Nigerian troops regain key border town from Boko Haram appeared first on Jean-Jacques Cornish.