The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has identified artificial intelligence (AI) and cryptocurrency as emerging challenges making it increasingly difficult for security agencies to apprehend terrorists.Ribadu said terrorist groups were exploiting social media platforms, cryptocurrencies and other modern technologies to recruit members, move funds secretly and coordinate attacks across West Africa and the Sahel region.
The NSA made this known on Tuesday in Abuja during a three-day regional training conference.
Represented at the event by the National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Maj. Gen. Adamu Laka, Ribadu explained that terrorist organisations were increasingly relying on digital platforms to spread propaganda, finance their activities and coordinate cross-border operations.
He warned that the growing adoption of artificial intelligence, drones and virtual assets had introduced additional security challenges for Nigeria and neighbouring countries.
“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,” he said.
Ribadu emphasised the importance of strengthening technical capacity, building institutional expertise and improving collaboration among security agencies to tackle the evolving threats.
He also called for enhanced intelligence sharing across borders and the prompt exchange of information on cyber threats among countries in West Africa and the Sahel.
According to the NSA, the fight against terrorism requires a coordinated approach involving governments, security institutions and other relevant stakeholders.
“Nigeria recognises that no institution, country or sector can defeat terrorism alone,” he stated.
The three-day conference attracted participants from West African and Sahelian countries, as well as representatives of the African Union, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Multinational Joint Task Force, regional intelligence organisations and international bodies.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his son, Seyi Tinubu, to increase his payment following his appearance at an All Progressives Congress (APC) rally on Tuesday.The singer made the request after actively participating in campaign activities and entertaining supporters at the political gathering.
The rally, organised in support of the Tinubu-Shettima ticket, was held at Onikan Stadium in Lagos State.
Videos circulating on social media showed Portable moving around the venue, interacting with supporters and taking part in activities to promote the President.
However, in one of the viral clips, the singer appeared exhausted and was seen lying on the floor while insisting that he wanted to meet Tinubu and his son before leaving the stadium.
His manager, Babylov, was also captured trying to persuade him to get up as they prepared to leave the venue.
Reports indicated that Portable fainted amid the overcrowding at the event.
Although the singer acknowledged that he had already received payment for attending the rally, he maintained that his efforts and the physical strain he experienced warranted additional compensation.
In the viral video, Portable was heard appealing directly to the President and Seyi Tinubu for more money while describing his experience at the rally.
“I want to see Tinubu and Seyi Tinubu; they have almost squeezed me to death. I have fainted; it is Tinubu that is winning. Did we not collect money? Tinubu, pay me more money; I am feeling so much heat,” he said.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Portuguese winger Rafael Leão has expressed his support for Barcelona star Lamine Yamal to win the Ballon d’Or and guide the Spanish club to major honours.Leão made the statement during an interview with Brazilian broadcaster TNT Sports BR on Tuesday, following Barcelona’s recent Champions League clash with Galatasaray, in which Yamal delivered an impressive performance.
The AC Milan forward praised the teenager’s footballing ability and personal qualities, describing him as a friend and commending the quality of players around him at Barcelona.
“I hope Lamine Yamal wins the Ballon d’Or and big trophies with Barça,” Leão said.
“He is among the best in the world, he’s someone I really appreciate as a player and person. He’s surrounded by good players at an extraordinary club.”
Leão also highlighted Yamal’s humility despite his rapid rise to prominence in European football, noting the teenager’s growing influence at the highest level of the game.
Yamal has become a key figure in Barcelona’s attack, earning widespread recognition for his performances for both the club and the Spanish national team.
His exceptional technical skills, creativity and ability to influence matches in the final third have established him as one of the most promising young players in world football.
Leão believes Yamal possesses the talent and support system required to compete for the prestigious Ballon d’Or while helping Barcelona challenge for major domestic and European trophies.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶