A few things the US should do.

1. Declare Boko Haram (the entire organisation) as an FTO. Already prominent Islamic clerics have openly challenged BH and for the US to hide behind "political correctness" might be misconstrued as acquiescence.

2. Understand the internal dynamics of the struggle. The Southern Christian population will react, but BH is also reaction to the Northern Muslim establishment. The future unity of Nigeria is seriously at stake - this is what should worry ALL analysts.