The US state department is expected to label the Nigerian Islamist militant group, Boko Haram, as a foreign terrorist organisation.

CEOAFRICA gathered that the move, which is expected to take place on Wednesday, means US regulatory agencies are instructed to block business and financial transactions with Boko Haram.

The group began its insurgency in 2009, and targets both the military and civilians, including schools, and frequently clashes with the Nigerian armed forces.

Boko Haram wants to impose Islamic law in northern Nigeria and has been blamed for thousands of deaths.

 Therefore if the move is effected,  it will become a crime under US law to provide material support to the group.