The extremist Islamic sect, Boko Haram, is now feared for its ability to mount both ‘low-scale’ and audacious attacks in Nigeria. Since July 2009 when it provoked a short-lived anti-government uprising in northern Nigeria, the sect has mounted serial attacks that have placed it in media spotlight, both locally and internationally. What is the philosophy of this group? How did it emerge? What are its main operational tactics and their impact on security in Nigeria? And what are the future scenarios for the Nigerian government to deal with the threat? These questions are what this report attempts to address in a very concise manner.