Boko Haram's aggression can be seen as a reaction against the lasting effects of Western influence in Nigeria, brought about by European imperialism in the early 20th century . Royalists argue that Boko Haram jihadists ambitiously aim to expand their caliphate across the region, eradicating anything that does not support their cause. However, realists do not take into account Boko Haram's recent incentive to negotiate with the Nigerian government, nor explain the willingness of neighboring countries to cooperate, especially when letting Boko Haram weaken Nigeria would be the easiest way to gain control of the region . a different understanding: they argue that Nigeria and its cooperatives perceive Boko Haram's aggression as an "act of war", and this perception has become an ideological norm that forces these countries to react. They also attribute Boko Haram's development to the education of its supporters, all of whom view their activities as part of a religious mission. This theory is problematic, however, because it overgeneralizes the mindset of both parties and does not consider additional political and financial incentives, as well as recent negotiations