Building confidence in security amid Nigeria elections despite Boko Haram threats

Insight

The main focus of Nigeria’s upcoming elections is the difficult fight against Boko Haram. It’s been a month since the military requested a six-week delay of the elections because of security concerns. Just two weeks before the elections, the military has said it’s made major advances against the Islamist militant group.

CCTV Africa’s Deji Badmus filed this report from Lagos, Nigeria.

Highlights:

  • In the past four weeks, Nigerian troops have managed to inflict a crushing blow on Boko Haram.
  • The military continues to take back towns and communities from the insurgents, and security experts warn this is no time to slow the renewed momentum.
  • As a sign of the changing tide in the war, President Goodluck Jonathan paid a surprise visit to troops on the frontline recently, something he has rarely done.
  • Nigeria’s elections are just two weeks away. The government has said it is confident it will retake all the territories occupied by Boko Haram before polls open.
  • Analysts have said convincing people to come out to vote could be a challenge, especially in the face of an increased suicide bombing campaign.

Ambassador John Campbell discusses threat of Boko Haram’s allegiance to ISIL

CCTV America interviewed John Campbell for more insight into Boko Haram and its allegiance to ISIL, as well as the major challenges this poses for whomever wins the presidency.

Campbell is a former U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria. He’s also the author of the book “Nigeria: Dancing on the Brink”, which explores the country’s history and the conflicts it currently faces.