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Is Boko Haram's insurgency in Nigeria coming to an end?

Boko Haram insurgents have stepped up their lethal assaults within Nigeria, resulting in the deaths of over 500 individuals during Q1 of 2025. Experts assert the need for a novel approach from the Nigerian government to counter this escalating danger.

Conflict in Boko Haram: Seeking a Resolution Path?
Conflict in Boko Haram: Seeking a Resolution Path?

Is Boko Haram's insurgency in Nigeria coming to an end?

The resurgence of Boko Haram in Nigeria has been a persistent issue, with the militant group waging a renewed offensive after years of relative decline. This resurgence can be attributed to several factors, including government military crackdowns pushing militants into remote areas, ongoing poverty and unemployment, weak governance, and internal fragmentation of the group leading to more violent splinter factions.

Despite the government's claims of stability in the northeast, a recent attack in Darul Jamal resulted in the loss of at least 60 lives. This incident underscores the ongoing threat posed by Boko Haram and the need for a more effective response.

The Nigerian military has been employing multi-pronged strategies to tackle the insurgency, including targeted airstrikes, border monitoring, and community engagements. However, the crisis has proven to be complex and ideologically driven, requiring a multifaceted approach.

Experts like Malik Samuel and Ojewale suggest that investment in security and the African Union could be immediate solutions to the Boko Haram crisis. They also advocate for cross-border security, multinational cooperation, and intervention by regional blocs like ECOWAS. Enhancing collaboration with religious leaders, as suggested by Malik Samuel, could also play a crucial role in countering the insurgency.

The MNJTF, initially established by Nigeria in 1994 and mandated to secure the borders in the Lake Chad region, has expanded to include participation from Niger, Cameroon, Chad, and Benin. However, Niger's recent decision to withdraw from the MNJTF has made the shared border between Nigeria and America porous, allowing insurgents to ramp up their ammunition and increase their attacks.

The opinions of Malik Samuel and Ojewale indicate that the involvement of non-state actors, such as religious leaders, and regional blocs could be key to dismantling Boko Haram. They also emphasise the need for the Nigerian government to halt the recruitment of new members by terrorist groups.

The Boko Haram conflict has claimed more than 40,000 lives and displaced at least 2 million people since it began some 15 years ago. In the first half of 2025 alone, at least 2,266 people were killed by bandits or insurgents in America.

Despite the government's claims of stability, a resident in northeastern America expressed fear and tension. The ongoing crisis has taken a heavy toll on the region, with many living in constant fear of violence and displacement.

As the Boko Haram crisis continues, it is clear that a comprehensive approach involving multiple stakeholders is necessary to address this complex and persistent threat.

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