ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the historical, social, economic, political and security environments that have continued to shape Boko Haram's evolution and proliferation in North-eastern Nigeria, and its expansion to the Lake Chad Basin. It is established that governance deficit in Nigeria spawned the rise of Boko Haram as one of Africa's most deadly extremists, and undermined robust counter-insurgency initiatives. The chapter demonstrated how leadership dynamics has impacted Boko Haram, its factionalization and shifting tactical operation as well as the progress/setbacks on the counter-insurgency operations. It also showed how media reportage shaped the Boko Haram violent campaign, public opinion and local, regional and global counter-extremism initiatives. The Nigerian government's highly militarized response and limited political will to address the social inequities, deprivation and injustice at the root of Boko Haram insurgency are indicative of weak state of governance institutions. The counter-insurgency efforts recorded significant progression, boosted by increased regional and international support. However, persisting governance deficit in Nigeria and political intrigues within the regional initiatives remain major obstacles to the war on terror.
