Nigeria: Terrorist groups adopt AI for operations amid rising violence

Insurgent groups in northeastern Nigeria, including Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), are increasingly integrating generative artificial intelligence into their operations. Research indicates that since 2023, these factions have utilized AI tools such as ChatGPT, Claude, DeepSeek, Gemini, and Grok to assist in tactical planning, logistics optimization, weapon troubleshooting, and the design or improvement of explosive devices. This technological shift is being institutionalized through specialized training provided by instructors from Iraq, Afghanistan, and North Africa, who have reportedly taught techniques to bypass the ethical safeguards of these AI models.

In a related escalation of violence, jihadist militants linked to the Islamic State attacked a military base in Borno State. The assault resulted in the deaths of 15 soldiers and five members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) militia. The attackers reportedly devastated the base, forcing troops to retreat to the nearby garrison town of Monguno. The incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in the region as insurgent groups continue to employ both advanced technology and direct kinetic force to destabilize the area.