This article examines state-sponsored terrorism and the security dilemma in developing nations, with a principal focus on Nigeria and comparative insights from other African contexts and selected states in the Global South. Through Constructivist Security Theory, Neorealism and Conspiracy theory, the analysis highlights how weak institutions, elite competition, and identity politics interact with state practices that resemble sponsorship of non-state violent actors. The article argues that these dynamics intensify insecurity, hinder governance, and exacerbate development challenges across the continent.
Keywords: Development, Governance, security dilemma, state sponsored terrorism
