Ribadu Warns of Terrorists Using AI and Crypto in Attacks

Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, along with the African Union Counter-Terrorism Centre, raised concerns about the growing use of artificial intelligence, cryptocurrencies, and social media by terrorist groups in West Africa and the Sahel. During a three-day regional training conference in Abuja, Ribadu, represented by Maj Gen Adamu Laka, emphasized that these technologies are being exploited for recruitment, fund concealment, and operational coordination.

He noted that AI can generate personalized content, while drones and virtual assets complicate security challenges. Ribadu called for enhanced technical expertise, institutional strengthening, and improved cooperation among security agencies, alongside increased cross-border intelligence sharing.

He mentioned Nigeria's collaboration with the African Union Counter-Terrorism Centre to secure accreditation for the National Counter Terrorism Centre as a regional center of excellence, following President Bola Tinubu's declaration at the High-Level Africa Counterterrorism Summit in April 2024. Idriss Lalalli, Acting Director of the AU Counter-Terrorism Centre, highlighted that groups like ISWAP and Boko Haram are leveraging technology for recruitment and operational activities.