The level of military expenditure in West Africa varies widely between countries. Nigeria is the fourth largest military spender in Sub-Saharan Africa – after Sudan, South Africa and Angola – and is by far the biggest military power in West Africa. However, despite its continued military operations against Boko Haram, Nigeria’s military expenditures fell in 2017 for the fourth consecutive year. Chad and Côte d’Ivoire also made substantial cuts to their military spending. Read on

Numerous extremists groups are active across the Sahara-Sahel area and in the Lake Chad region. Most are extremely mobile and operate easily across national territories because of the porous nature of national borders in the region. Their actions are being increasingly constrained by military responses launched by national governments in alliance with international partners. Read on

According to the COFACE economic forecast, Benin’s economic prospects are good. Its economy is expected to grow by 5.6% in 2018, thanks to its improved agricultural performance and Nigeria’s economic recovery. Informal trade continues to occupy a predominate position, with transit trade and re-export trade to Nigeria representing 20% of the GDP. Read on

Why did Boko Haram emerge in the northeastern city of Maiduguri? How did the jihadist movement manage to control territories in northeastern Nigeria and beyond? And how does Boko Haram adjust its strategies to local and external events? This is a must read for anyone who wants to understand Boko Haram’s trajectory. Read on