This chapter looks into the topic of ‘actors of persecution or serious harm’. It focuses on the main actors in Nigeria, their areas of presence and control, the violations they have reportedly committed, and, where applicable, their structure and organisation.

The contents of this chapter include: Preliminary remarks 1.1. Overview: areas of control 1.2. The Nigerian State and state-affiliated actors 1.3. Non-State actors 1.3.1. Boko Haram, including JAS, ISWAP and Ansaru 1.3.2. Militant groups in the Niger Delta 1.3.3. Separatist movements 1.3.4. Herders and farmers and communal militias 1.3.5. Student cults 1.3.6. Traffickers and trafficking networks 1.3.7. Other criminal groups 1.3.8. Other non-State actors