Crime and Terror Nexus: The Intersections Between Terror and Criminal Groups in the Lake Chad Basin

Overlaps between criminality and various forms of violence or terror are not new to the Lake Chad Basin (LCB) region. Yet, the rising frequency, scale, and regionalisation of the crime terror nexus in the contemporary period in which Boko Haram is complicit poses a pressing danger for states and communities. This has implications for countries of the LCB region that continue to endure the impact of the group’s violence and those threatened by its potential spill over. In this paper, the ‘crime-terror nexus’ refers to the reciprocal relationship between organised crime and terrorism, whether purposive or circumstantial. It delves into how violent extremist groups such as Boko Haram exploit crime for instance as a source of funding or as part of activities that foster resilience and adaptation. The nexus also entails how alliances are formed involving factions of the group and other entrepreneurs of insecurity in ways that seek to benefit different entities. Authored by Akinola Olojo Ph.D and Chika Charles Aniekwe Ph.D, this policy paper observes and analyses an extension and increasing connections of crime and terror in the LCB region. It argues that this trend requires dedicated analysis and joint strategic efforts by development, humanitarian and peace actors to avoid retrogression of efforts while ensuring an integration of measures towards recovery and long-term development in the region.