Boko Haram and Other Security Challenges in Nigeria

Conflicts, both military and civil, have ravaged many African countries. In Nigeria, the Boko Haram insurgency has been the greatest security threat after the civil war from 1967-1970. The proliferation and manifestation of various ethnic militia, bandit and other criminal groups have further compounded the security situation in the country. This book is mainly about Boko Haram; its origin, evolution, network, impact and the government’s responses to the threat. The book also examines other security challenges affecting Nigeria and proffers recommendations as options for security policy and management.
Boko Haram is a home-grown form of terrorism. Thus, this book is a significant contribution to the study of terrorism, insurgency, non-military conflict and terrorist financing. Obviously, Boko Haram and other security challenges facing Nigeria are products of bad governance and effectively dealing with them would require a demonstrable and observable political will, which must be predicated on a proper understanding of the critical dimensions of the problems. As the issues are interwoven, the perceived and real causes must be addressed, including an agenda for the youth population, combating corruption, ensuring accountability, providing transparent and fair justice for all. In other words, while international collaboration is essential, the solutions to the problems must be home-grown.