Boko Haram and the Islamic State: Variations in Terror

During the past several years Nigeria has experienced a marked increase in terrorism. This rise owes primarily to the emergence of Boko Haram. While the Institute for Economics and Peace notes that terrorist activities in Nigeria are qualitatively different from those in the Middle East, it is increasingly evident that Boko Haram has much in common with the Islamic State, insofar as group goals and ideology are concerned. Recent statements of alliance support this position. In this paper we explore the growth of Boko Haram and examine commonalities with the Islamic State, with a particular focus on ideologies, tactics, and practices.