Examining the Dynamics of terrorism in Africa: Study of Lake Chad Basin

The study explores the concept of terrorism in the African context through social, economic, political, and historical perspectives rather than purely ideological or religious ones. Using qualitative and content analysis of academic and policy sources, it identifies key drivers such as inequality, poor governance, corruption, unemployment, and marginalization factors exploited by extremist groups. It also examines the conceptual relationships among insurgency, self-determination movements, and terrorism, demonstrating how groups pursuing self-determination in Africa frequently adopt terrorist methods when conventional political channels are foreclosed. The study further situates contemporary African terrorism within its Cold War and neocolonial origins, arguing that external powers historically exploited ethno-religious divisions to sustain influence over the continent. It concludes that terrorism in Africa is complex and context-specific, influenced by both local and transnational dynamics. Effective responses must go beyond security measures to include inclusive governance, youth empowerment, regional cooperation, and community-based strategies. The study's contribution lies in developing an African-centred framework for understanding terrorism, drawing on Relative Deprivation, Frustration-Aggression, and Political Economy theories. It connects structural conditions to violent extremism and proposes sustainable, context-sensitive pathways toward peace and development.