This paper attempts a qualitative historical analysis of the nexus between aspects of socio-political challenges and the intensification of terrorism in post-independence Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Mali. The analysis is especially restricted to terrorist groups such as the Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). Slight references, however, are, made to other African countries and terrorist groups such as al-Qaeda, ISIS, and their affiliates. It underscores the significance of the aforementioned countries, noting why they are currently recognised in contemporary global discourse as refuge of terrorists in West Africa. It examines the interventionist and collaborative roles played by international and regional entities and initiatives such as the United Nations (UN), G5-Sahel, Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), Trans-Saharan Counterterrorism Initiative (TSCTI), Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), among others. Using the historical method, which involves the evaluation and analysis of secondary sources, alongside other relevant qualitative evidence, the paper argues that the socio-political challenges faced in these countries, during the late twentieth century, not only served as a catalyst for the twenty-first century emanation and spread of terrorism, but it also compounded or worsened them. It concludes by demonstrating the strategies and prospects for the qualitative development of the sub-region, noting that if the socio-political and economic variables are effectively addressed, terrorism, alongside its ravaging consequences, could be curtailed.
