State Failure and International Terrorism: An Analysis of the State of Nigeria as an Incubator of Terror

The ‘War on Terror’ differs distinctly from the major security challenges that characterized the 20th century, particularly as it is defined by asymmetric warfare, where non-state actors challenge state security. ISIS and Boko Haram are two prominent jihadist groups involved in this conflict. In March 2015, Boko Haram in Nigeria became a branch of ISIS in the West Africa Region. Boko Haram has carried out a number of attacks in Central and West region of Africa against Nigeria, Chad, Niger and Cameroon, making it an international agent. Some queries are raised about the presence and the lack of control by the competent state authorities. Thus Nigeria is considered by some scholars as an incubator of global terror. This claim is also challenged by those who argue there is no clear link between failed or failing states and international terrorism. The aim of this research is to find the relationship between failed or failing states and transnational terrorism. This study will contribute to the scholarly debate on international security. Thus, the topic aims to enrich the discussion on failed states and terrorism in international relations. The findings would seek to contribute to practitioner knowledge regarding potential failed state governments and the dangers these present to the international community as a whole. Keywords: Failed states, Failing states, International terrorism, Nigeria