Combatant Experiences in Multi-Ethnic Extremist Groups: Identity and Allegiance in Boko Haram [Hardcover]

Chapter 1: Introduction? Chapter 2: Insurgent Organisation? Chapter 3: History? Chapter 4: Recruitment? Chapter 5: Shaping the Identity of Boko Haram: Age and Socio-Economic Vulnerability? Chapter 6: Ethnicity and its Effect in Boko Haram? Chapter 7: Combatant Socialisation and the Role of Leadership? Chapter 8: Life after Boko Haram? Chapter 9: Conclusion

This book uses Boko Haram as a case study to delve into the operations of extremist groups in sub-Saharan Africa, with a particular focus on the unique cultural contexts in which they function.

'Makena Micheni has achieved a remarkable balance here of accessibility and sophistication. For those new to the topic of Boko Haram, the book lays out core dimensions of the conflict and how it affected fighters and communities; for specialists, the book offers a fresh angle on the complex puzzle of how ethnicity figures into the movement. Micheni's candid and insightful reflections on her own fieldwork and methodology add to the book's depth and staying power. The book is a major scholarly achievement and a precious addition to the literature on armed conflict in Africa and worldwide.'

Alexander Thurston, Associate Professor, University of Cincinnati, USA

This book uses Boko Haram as a case study to delve into the operations of extremist groups in sub-Saharan Africa, with a particular focus on the unique cultural contexts in which they function.

The book explores how such groups navigate ethnically diverse environments and manage to forge a sense of collective homogeneity, even in the face of internal diversity. Drawing from first-hand interviews with ex-fighters and a thorough examination of the group's operational dynamicsincluding recruitment, indoctrination, combat leadership, and unit behaviourthe book identifies moments when, despite Boko Haram's aim to transcend ethnic boundarielS