The Boko Haram Insurgency in Nigeria - Essay Example

Download file to see previous pages... The group is a leading concern for U.S policymakers. Boko Haram’s declaration that it has instituted an Islamic caliphate has stirred up international concerns over the insurgents’ brisk ascent in Nigeria (Smith, 2014). Policymakers should refrain from categorizing Boko Haram as simply another enemy in the war against international terrorism. Although the group’s activities are principally local, if allowed to grow in magnitude, the consequences could be dire for the entire international system.
 The United States government designated Boko Haram as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist under Executive Order (E.O) 13224 on November 14, 2013 (Smith, 2014). These designations are a crucial step in the comprehensive approach towards countering the impact of Boko Haram. The Boko Haram rebellion is an express consequence of chronic poor governance from the federal and state governments of Nigeria that has resulted in the political marginalization of various regions in Northeast Nigeria (Smith, 2014). The region’s accelerating state of poverty further worsens the situation. The rebel movement has instituted several attacks in the northeastern region of Nigeria and has gone as far as kidnapping young females (Smith, 2014). The Nigerian government, under the leadership of former President Jonathan Goodluck, made limited progress towards handling the political situation (Smith, 2014). The United States remains profoundly concerned about the situation. The United States has policies in place that supports the sharing of information, as well as programs aimed at supplying affirmative alternatives to societies at risk of radicalization and terrorist recruitment (Smith, 2014). The United States has the remarkable capacity in its military to protect its welfare around the globe. ...Download file to see next pagesRead More