By Paul Joseph
The Nigerian Army has raised concerns over the increasing use of the internet by terrorist and criminal groups to recruit members, raise funds, coordinate attacks and spread propaganda, declaring that it is strengthening its cyber warfare capabilities to counter the evolving threat.
The warning was issued on Tuesday by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, at the 2026 Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare School Seminar in Abuja.
Represented by the Deputy Chief of Special Services and Programmes, Maj.-Gen. Jeremiah Manjang, Shaibu said cyberspace has emerged as a major battlefield where both state and non-state actors carry out operations with speed and anonymity.
He warned that criminals no longer need to be physically present to attack critical infrastructure, steal sensitive information, manipulate public opinion or undermine national security through cyber attacks.
According to the army chief, terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, separatist activities, organised crime, misinformation and disinformation are increasingly being planned and promoted through digital platforms and cyber networks.
He noted that terrorist groups now depend on the internet for recruitment, propaganda, fundraising, intelligence gathering, operational planning and concealing illicit financial transactions.
Shaibu said the changing nature of security threats has compelled the Nigerian Army to strengthen its cyber warfare capabilities to effectively tackle technology-driven crimes.
He called for greater deployment of artificial intelligence, machine learning and advanced data analytics to enhance intelligence gathering, early warning systems and threat detection.
The army chief also advocated stronger collaboration among the military, other security agencies, government institutions, universities and the private sector, stressing that cybersecurity requires a coordinated national response.
He added that Nigeria must continue investing in indigenous cyber technology, research and skilled manpower to safeguard the country’s digital space and strengthen national security.
Earlier, the Commandant of the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare School, Brig.-Gen. Jacob Bawa, said the seminar was organised to deepen cybersecurity awareness, improve cyber resilience and promote collaboration among key security stakeholders.
Bawa observed that Nigeria’s growing reliance on digital technology has exposed critical sectors, including telecommunications, electricity, banking and government databases, to cyber threats.
Also speaking at the seminar, cybersecurity expert Abdulhakeem Ajijola cautioned that excessive dependence on foreign software and artificial intelligence could weaken Nigeria’s capacity to protect its national interests during emergencies.
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