Retired Nigerian Air Force officer, Group Captain Sodiq Shehu, has raised concerns over the growing transnational nature of terrorism in Africa, warning that extremist groups increasingly collaborate across borders, making the fight against insecurity more complex for governments and security agencies.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, on Friday, 5 June, 2026, Shehu said terrorist organisations operating in different parts of the continent have developed networks that enable them to share resources, manpower and operational support. According to him, this trend underscores the need for stronger regional cooperation among African nations to effectively combat insurgency and violent extremism.
The retired military officer cited his personal experience in Mali to illustrate how terrorist groups have extended their reach beyond national boundaries. He recalled reports linking members of Boko Haram in Nigeria to insurgent activities in the West African nation.
“I remember, when i was in Mali, there were reports that Boko Haram members from Nigeria have traveled as far as Mali to support the insurgents that are there,” Shehu said.
He noted that the movement of fighters across countries demonstrates that terrorism can no longer be viewed as a purely domestic challenge. Instead, he argued, it has evolved into a regional and continental threat requiring coordinated intelligence gathering, information sharing and joint military operations.
Security analysts have repeatedly warned that extremist groups operating in the Sahel region, including parts of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, often maintain links with other militant organisations across Africa. These connections, experts say, allow them to recruit members, exchange tactics and sustain their operations despite military pressure….See More
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