A decline in piracy has pushed criminals toward hostage-taking, creating a growing ransom economy in the ocean region from Nigeria to Gabon.
Remote and poorly resourced outposts are soft targets for attacks, and a weak point in regional counter-terrorism efforts.
As armed groups shift away from direct confrontations with the military, commercial drones are increasingly used to carry out attacks.
Current efforts to restore constitutional order must also promote the effective inclusion of women in public affairs.
ISWAP’s hunt for resources is eroding the ability of communities in northern Cameroon to withstand economic hardship.
Durable solutions to end deadly attacks in Benue State will remain elusive if the crisis continues to be misdiagnosed.
Jihadist groups and militarised counter-terrorism responses have weakened traditional approaches to resolving climate disputes.
Despite a recent surge in terrorist attacks, the region is more at risk of fragmentation than centralised jihadist rule.
Understanding ECOWAS’ five decades of experience can make an immense contribution to integration in Africa.
Constitutional and legal reforms are needed to address divisions rooted in the over-centralisation of power and resources.
Despite some progress, consensus on the electoral process and the expansion of democratic freedoms remains crucial.
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