Ribadu and AU Warn of Terrorists' Digital Tactics

Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, and the African Union Counter-Terrorism Centre raised concerns about terrorist groups exploiting social media, cryptocurrencies, and emerging technologies for recruitment and funding during a three-day regional training conference in Abuja. Idriss Lalalli, Acting Director of the AU Counter-Terrorism Centre, highlighted that groups such as the Islamic State West Africa Province, Boko Haram, and Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin are expanding their operations through digital technologies.

They utilize social media for recruitment, mobile money and cryptocurrencies for funding, and darknet marketplaces for purchasing weapons. Lalalli emphasized that the speed and low cost of these digital tools allow terrorist cells to reach wider audiences quickly, outpacing security responses.

He advocated for specialized training and regional coordination to address these challenges. Maj-Gen. Adamu Laka, representing Ribadu, echoed these concerns, noting that the use of artificial intelligence and drones complicates security efforts in Nigeria and the region.