8. Conclusion

The conclusion of the book brings together the threats discussed in isolation in the preceding chapters to argue that security does not happen in a vacuum. It is contended that security is an emergent product or property of a complex adaptive system. In effect, the national security of each African state is a function of the security system in which it resides. It is surmised that almost every African country finds itself in a turbulent neighbourhood. Irrespective of how good a single state may be at managing its national security, it is still exposed to events happening in neighbouring countries which are beyond their jurisdiction or control. The cases of the Boko Haram and the Central African Republic rebels in Cameroon highlight such an argument.