Security threats will plague the Nigerian military

Abstract

Subject Boko Haram and the humanitarian crisis in Nigeria. Significance The Nigerian government and military have reiterated the assertion first made at the end of 2015 that Boko Haram is “technically defeated”, yet evidence shows that the security situation remains perilous. The jihadists are still a versatile guerrilla force and they are inflicting significant losses on the armies of Nigeria, Niger and Cameroon as well as local communities. While it is true that the Nigerian military has made substantial gains, Boko Haram still poses a real threat to north-east Nigeria and neighbouring countries. The insurgency may be entering a new phase, influenced by changing group tactics and factionalisation. Impacts Tensions may arise between the government and aid agencies over coordination and control of the humanitarian response. Food insecurity will increase as the government struggles to resettle families. Boko Haram could become a primarily cross-border force, as it struggles to control fixed territories.