How terrorists use AI, crypto to outrun security agencies — NSA

The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, alongside the African Union Counter-Terrorism Centre, has raised a critical alarm over the evolving tactics of terrorist networks across West Africa and the Sahel.

Security agencies warn that extremist groups are aggressively deploying artificial intelligence, cryptocurrencies, and advanced digital platforms to recruit members, conceal illicit funds, and coordinate cross-border operations.

The joint warning was delivered in Abuja during a regional training conference focused on detecting and disrupting terrorist exploitation of information and communication technologies and emerging tech.

Ribadu, who was represented at the event by Major General Adamu Laka, the National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre, emphasized that the intersection of modern technology and terrorism has dramatically complicated national and regional defence strategies.

He noted that virtual space has transformed into a primary battlefield for radicalization and illicit financing.

“Emerging technologies add further complexity: Artificial Intelligence can rapidly produce personalised content; drones and autonomous systems can expand operational capabilities; and virtual assets can create new financing channels. We must, therefore, strengthen our ability to anticipate, detect, analyse and disrupt threats before they materialise,” Ribadu stated.