The Nigerian government will likely continue prioritizing security crises based on the political and economic relevance of different regions, but myriad domestic constraints and limited regional cooperation will enable armed groups to continue to expand their range of operations and capabilities. In mid-August, the governor of northwestern Zamfara state publicly rejected the option of negotiating with armed bandits to curb their growing attacks, instead pledging to pursue them by force. His firm stance came days after reports emerged that some local government areas in neighboring Katsina state had struck peace deals with bandit groups, though the terms of these agreements remain unclear. The deals follow a recent surge in banditry characterized by killings of both civilians and security personnel, kidnappings for ransom and disruption to farming and herding -- pivotal economic sectors in northern Nigeria. While initiatives such as peace agreements with bandits aim to address insecurity, they highlight the...
