Nigeria, April 19 -- Executive Summary

Northern Nigeria faces a daunting array of insecurity issues that are deeply rooted in socio-economic, political, ethnic, and religious tensions. At the core of Northern Nigeria's insecurity is the pervasive issue of banditry, which has significantly evolved from its historical origins. Initially integrated into the societal structure, banditry has now transformed, becoming more violent amidst the advent of modern weaponry and the crumbling of traditional social structures.

Beyond banditry the rise and spread of Islamist insurgencies, notably Boko Haram and its offshoots like Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP), have also contributed to an insecure environment. Originating as a critique a...