This research investigates the strategies adopted by the Nigerian government to counter Boko Haram’s insurgency, with particular emphasis on activities linked to cross-border movement in the north-eastern region of the country. The study situates Boko Haram’s operations within the context of porous borders, weak border governance, and long-standing transnational migration networks that span Nigeria and its neighboring countries. These conditions have enabled the group to recruit fighters, move arms and logistics, evade security forces, and extend its influence across borders. The insurgency has significantly intensified insecurity in the region, resulting in mass displacement, loss of livelihoods, and the deterioration of social and economic structures. Consequently, millions of people have been forced into internal displacement or cross-border migration, exacerbating an already fragile humanitarian situation and increasing the vulnerability of displaced populations to radicalization and exploitation. The research argues that while military operations remain important, they are insufficient on their own to address the complexity of the crisis. A comprehensive, multi-pronged approach is therefore required. This approach should combine strengthened border management and regional security cooperation with targeted humanitarian assistance for affected communities and sustainable development initiatives. Addressing the root causes of poverty, marginalization, and weak governance is essential for reducing forced displacement, undermining extremist recruitment, and promoting long-term peace and stability in north-eastern Nigeria.
Magaji et al. (2026) studied this question.