Al-Qaeda-affiliated groups expanding foothold in Nigeria – NAF warns of rising threat

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has expressed concern over the increasing activities of Al-Qaeda-linked extremist groups in Nigeria, West Africa, and the broader Sahel region.

According to the NAF, these groups are exploiting weak governance structures to expand their influence, posing a significant risk to national and regional stability.

Speaking during a high-level meeting at the NAF headquarters in Abuja, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, underscored the urgent need for enhanced security collaboration among affected nations.

He pointed out that the porous borders of the Lake Chad Basin have facilitated the operations of extremist groups, making joint efforts essential in addressing the growing threats.

Abubakar also highlighted the evolving nature of modern warfare, emphasizing the role of artificial intelligence, drone technology, and social media in shaping asymmetric conflicts.

He noted that lessons from recent conflicts in Europe, the Middle East, and West Africa demonstrate an increasing reliance on these tools to influence war narratives and execute attacks.

One alarming example he cited was a Boko Haram attack in Wajiroko, Damboa Local Government Area, where drones carrying locally made grenades were deployed in a kamikaze-style assault against troops.

This, he said, reflects the growing sophistication of terrorist tactics and underscores the need for the Nigerian military to implement advanced countermeasures.

He stressed the importance of developing a robust counter-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) system to protect military personnel and assets.

Beyond land-based threats, Abubakar also drew attention to ongoing security challenges in the Gulf of Guinea.

He warned that maritime crimes, such as piracy and illegal oil bunkering, continue to undermine regional stability, necessitating enhanced aerial surveillance and stronger international maritime security cooperation.

Concluding his remarks, the Air Marshal called for a comprehensive approach to security, including refining military doctrines, integrating advanced technologies, and fostering intelligence-sharing networks.

He emphasized that strategic partnerships are essential for countering both conventional and unconventional threats to Nigeria and the wider region.