Non-State Security Groups and Their Role in Countering Boko Haram Terrorism in North East Region of Nigeria

Abstract Non state security groups ( NSSG s) have become prominent in contemporary theatres of armed conflicts around the world whether for good or bad. In the North East Region of Nigeria for instance, NSSG s such as vigilantes, hunters and civilian joint task force have given a very good account of themselves in countering the violent activities of Boko Haram terrorists. This article makes a major contribution to the contemporary research works on the role of NSSG s in countering the Boko Haram terrorism as it examines their role, successes and the threats they pose to the ongoing efforts at countering the Boko Haram terrorism and the efforts towards rebuilding the region. The study, also advocates for the incorporation of members of NSSG s that have undergone character vetting into a community or state policing structure with a view to complementing the official government security architecture towards improving peace and security in the North East region.