Global Terrorism: Appraising The Effect of Boko Haram Menace on Nigeria’s International Security Profile

Abstract: Terrorism arising from Boko Haram menace has been prevalent in Nigeria despite the various efforts of Nigerian government and International Community towards fighting the group. Imperatively, the study examined the effects of Boko Haram menace on Nigeria’s international security profile in the specific areas of her diplomatic relations, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into Nigeria, Military relations, hospitality and foreign perception of Nigeria’s tourist industries. The paper is qualitative and descriptive in orientation; data gathered through documented evidence were contently analyzed, while Systems Theory of Talcott Parsons and David Easton served as theoretical guide for the study. The study unveiled among others that Boko Haram menace has not only negatively affected Nigeria’s international security profile but served as a signal to the international community that the country is unsecured. Based on findings, the study recommended among others, the urgent need for Nigerian government to come up with new and updated security-image rebranding policy and step up her national and international campaigns against terrorism, etc. in order to change the negative perceptions of the international community about Nigeria. This will go a long way in redeeming her international socio-political and economic relations already battered by the Boko Haram menace and as well, improve her international security profile.

Keywords: Boko Haram; International Community; International Security; Security Profile; Terrorism