How Boko Haram uses AI in its military operations in Nigeria

Recent findings reveal that factions of Boko Haram in Nigeria have begun integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into their operational strategies, marking a significant shift in their tactics. According to an in-depth report by the Cambridge Programme on AI Science & Policy, these groups are leveraging generative AI systems to streamline logistics, enhance planning, and address technical challenges.

AI adoption beyond propaganda

The study, based on interviews with 27 former members—including mid-level commanders and technical specialists—highlights that AI usage extends far beyond traditional propaganda. Between 2023 and 2025, these factions reportedly employed publicly available AI tools such as ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Grok, Meta AI, and DeepSeek to optimize their activities.

Key applications include:

• Planning and coordinating attacks with improved precision
• Analyzing failed operations to identify vulnerabilities and refine tactics
• Troubleshooting technical issues with captured military equipment
• Designing improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and enhancing operational security

Former members noted that AI accelerates access to specialized knowledge, reducing research time from days to mere minutes. However, the report cautions that while AI may enhance efficiency, it does not necessarily enable attacks that would otherwise be impossible.

Specialized units and Daesh influence

The integration of AI has led to the creation of dedicated units within Boko Haram’s factions, particularly the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS). These teams, composed of engineers, arms specialists, and planners, act as intermediaries between field operatives and AI systems.

Field fighters submit questions to these units, which then query multiple AI platforms before selecting and disseminating responses. Access to equipment and accounts is tightly controlled to prevent leaks or unauthorized use. The adoption of AI was reportedly encouraged by instructors linked to Daesh, who provided training, hardware (including laptops and projectors), and access to premium software and encryption tools.

Challenges and limitations

The report underscores several critical limitations:

• Conclusions rely primarily on testimonies from former mid-level cadres, not current leadership, limiting insights into high-level decision-making.
• AI-generated responses may contain inaccuracies or impractical advice, posing risks in real-world operations.
• AI tools do not replace human expertise but can accelerate learning and knowledge sharing.

Experts warn that the widespread availability of AI democratizes access to advanced capabilities, enabling even resource-limited groups to enhance their operations. This raises urgent questions for tech developers, security agencies, and policymakers about balancing innovation with safeguards against malicious use.

The road ahead

The study suggests that Boko Haram’s factions view AI as a transformative tool for improving efficiency and expanding their operational scope. As these groups invest in training, equipment, and subscriptions, the focus shifts from whether AI will be used to how effectively security mechanisms can mitigate its misuse in violence.