CDS Musa Calls for AI, Technology Investment Against Terrorism

Byline: Security & Defence Desk, IDNN

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CDS Musa Calls for AI Technology Against Terrorism

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has called on African military leaders to adopt artificial intelligence (AI), cyber-defence, and indigenous technologies to counter evolving terrorist threats.

He issued the warning at the Africa Defence Chiefs Conference in Abuja, stressing that terrorism in Africa now transcends conventional battlefields.

“The battlefield is evolving. Today’s threats are digital, asymmetric, and often invisible. Without cyber-defence and AI, it will be difficult to defeat the enemy within,” Musa told participants.

Terrorism in the Digital Age

Musa argued that terrorist groups like Boko Haram, ISWAP, Al-Shabaab, and Al-Qaeda increasingly exploit digital platforms, encryption, and asymmetric strategies. He said regional forces must modernise or risk being outpaced by “invisible enemies.”

The CDS urged colleagues to “rise above division and embrace unity,” highlighting that shared intelligence and joint training are as critical as weapons on the ground.

Nigeria’s Commitment

Representing President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to regional stability and counter-terrorism. He described Nigeria as “deeply committed to continental defence integration,” citing its peacekeeping and counter-insurgency missions across Africa.

Other high-profile attendees included UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, AU Chairperson Mahamoud Youssouf, ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray, and senior Nigerian officials.

Towards an African Security Architecture

General Musa stressed that “true security is not achieved in isolation,” adding that African nations must build frameworks that are proactive, resilient, and responsive. He urged investment not only in weapons but also in AI-driven surveillance, predictive threat modelling, and indigenous military technology.

“The challenges are great, but so is our resolve. Let us build a continent where our people live free and where our Armed Forces are symbols of stability and pride,” he said.

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