Understanding the Local-Global Dichotomy and Drivers of the Boko Haram Insurgency

Nigeria with its neighboring countries has endured a decade (2009–19) of insurgent attacks from Boko Haram, an Islamic fundamentalist group, that have led to the death of over 30,000 people, displacement of over three million people, and the destruction of properties. Boko Haram has remained active and dangerous, despite the relatively successful counter-terrorism and counter insurgency efforts by the Nigerian military, the regional counterterrorism force, and assistance from the international community. Several publications on Boko Haram have shed light on its different aspects and manifestations, but questions remain. This article attempts to answer two inadequately answered questions: first, is Boko Haram a local or global terrorist organization? Second, is Boko Haram driven by ideology, grievance, or greed? The article seeks to connect the dots and tie the loose ends by assessing the group's motivations, threats, activities, and responses.