
Using primary source materials, this case study maps the groups many factions, loyalalties, splinterings, and re-formations. The author supplies deep insight into the seams and gaps that exist, and how strategic and tactical motivations have propelled an armed group to regional importance. The book dissects how the group’s evolution has taken place under the watchful eye, and often directing hand, of both al-Qaeda and the Islamic State in Iraq and al-Sham and highlights it’s starring role in a new international rivalry: an uncivil war between al-Qaeda and the Islamic State.
Message from the Editors 3
Author Biography 5
I. Introduction: The Chibok Kidnapping, AQIM, and Islamic State 7
A. AQIM’s Response 10
B. Islamic State’s Response 13
C. A Note on Names and History (Nigerian Taliban, JAS 1.0 and 2.0, Ansaru and West Africa Province) 16
D. Al-Qaeda’s Hand in Nigeria 20
Figure 1. Evolution of the Nigerian Taliban to JAS 1996-2017.... 20
II. Al-Qaeda Reaches Into Nigeria 27
A. Bin Laden’s Early Encounters with Nigerians 30
B. Yusuf and His Following 35
C. Shekau and AQIM Connect 42
III. AQIM Enters Nigeria 49
Figure 2. Locations of Attacks by JAS & Ansaru from 2010-2012 51
Figure 3. JAS, JAS AQIM, & Ansaru Attacks 2010-2012 52
A. JAS Shekau Faction 53
B. The JAS AQIM Faction 55
C. Ansaru 61
IV. From AQIM to ISIS 71
A. The JAS Shekau Faction Wins Out 74
B. Creating the Caliphate 82
C. The Caliphate in Crisis 89
V. Conclusion: Future Scenarios 95
Military leaders, U.S. diplomats and foreign officers may benefit from the author's insights. Students of political science may also be interested in this research.
Product Details
- Zenn, Jacob
- Center for Irregular Warfare and Armed Groups Case Studies
- Irregular Warfare Series Number 1
- Boko Haram
- Al Qaeda