REGIONAL INTEGRATION IN WEST AFRICA IN THE CONTEXT OF JIHADIST INSURGENCIES AND MILITARY RULE IN THE SAHEL, 2011-2023

Abstract

This study investigates the interplay among jihadist insurgencies, military rule, and regional integration in West Africa between 2011 and 2023, with particular emphasis on the Sahel region. The study is situated within the context of the deteriorating security environment characterised by the proliferation of violent extremist groups and the resurgence of military coups, both of which have posed significant challenges to the regional integration agenda of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and other regional institutions.The study aims to examine how these twin phenomena—jihadist insurgency and authoritarian resurgence—have influenced the political and institutional environment for regional integration. It adopts a qualitative research approach, employing content analysis of policy documents, official communiqués, and relevant scholarly literature. Thematic analysis is used to identify the major patterns and issues emerging from the data.The findings reveal that the persistence of jihadist violence and recurrent military coups has undermined state legitimacy, fragmented political authority, weakened democratic governance, and diminished regional solidarity. The study further finds that ECOWAS's capacity to respond effectively has been constrained by institutional weaknesses, political divisions among member states, and inconsistent enforcement of regional protocols. In addition, the emergence of the Alliance of Sahel States has intensified regional fragmentation and exposed growing disagreements over security cooperation, governance, and the future direction of regional integration. The study concludes that meaningful regional integration in West Africa remains achievable but depends on comprehensive institutional reforms, stronger political commitment among member states, enhanced regional cooperation, and inclusive governance practices that simultaneously promote security, democratic governance, and sustainable development.