How Boko Haram factions leverage artificial intelligence to enhance operations in Nigeria

Recent findings reveal that splinter groups of Boko Haram in Nigeria’s northeastern region have begun integrating publicly available generative artificial intelligence tools into their operational frameworks. This revelation comes from a 2026 study conducted by the Cambridge Programme on AI Science & Policy, based at the University of Cambridge, which analyzed testimonies from former members of the extremist network.

AI tools integrated by Boko Haram factions

According to the report, two prominent factions—ISWAP (Islamic State’s West Africa Province) and JAS (Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad)—have adopted multiple AI platforms, including ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Grok, Meta AI, and DeepSeek. These tools, initially accessed in 2023, are now reportedly used for purposes far beyond traditional propaganda.

Interviews with 27 former mid-level commanders and technical specialists, conducted between 2025 and 2026, indicate that AI systems have been employed to:

• Plan and coordinate attacks: Analyzing tactical scenarios and refining operational strategies.
• Resolve logistical challenges: Organizing movements, resource allocation, and supply chains.
• Troubleshoot technical issues: Diagnosing equipment malfunctions, maintaining seized weapons, and understanding military hardware.
• Develop explosive devices: Assisting in the design and optimization of improvised explosive mechanisms.
• Enhance operational security: Identifying vulnerabilities in communication or defense systems.

AI-driven cells and Daesh influence

The study highlights the creation of specialized AI units within these factions, staffed by members with expertise in engineering, armaments, and explosives. These teams act as in-house consultants, fielding queries from frontline fighters and cross-referencing multiple AI platforms to extract actionable intelligence.

Access to these systems is tightly controlled, with permissions granted only to trusted operatives to mitigate risks of leaks or surveillance. The adoption of AI tools was reportedly accelerated by instructors linked to Daesh, who provided hands-on training, distributed computing equipment, and even facilitated paid subscriptions to premium AI services.

Training sessions covered AI fundamentals, prompt engineering, and techniques to bypass platform restrictions. The knowledge gained was then disseminated across operational units, embedding AI as a core component of their tactical toolkit.

Limitations and evolving threats

While the report underscores the growing reliance on AI, it also notes methodological constraints. Findings are based solely on testimonies from former mid-ranking members, who may lack insight into broader organizational decisions. Additionally, AI models are prone to generating inaccurate or contextually irrelevant responses, raising questions about the reliability of the information disseminated.

Nonetheless, the study signals a broader shift: armed groups with limited resources can now access advanced technologies once reserved for governments and corporations. This democratization of AI tools could reduce technical barriers in translation, data analysis, maintenance, and strategic planning—though it does not eliminate the need for human expertise.

Security challenges and future risks

The ease of access to AI platforms complicates efforts to monitor malicious use. Users can circumvent restrictions by reformulating queries, switching platforms, or leveraging multiple accounts. The report calls for collaboration among developers, public authorities, security agencies, and researchers to strengthen countermeasures against structured adversaries, not just individual actors.

As Boko Haram factions increasingly trust AI’s capabilities, their investment in subscriptions, hardware, and specialized training is expected to grow. The critical question now is whether existing safeguards can keep pace with this technological integration—or if AI will become a permanent fixture in the arsenal of extremist groups.