UN Raises Alarm Over Terror Groups’ Use Of Drones, Encryption And Cryptocurrency In Northern Nigeria, Sahel

UN Raises Alarm Over Terror Groups’ Use of Drones, Encryption and Cryptocurrency in Northern Nigeria, Sahel The United Nations has warned that terrorist organisations operating in Northern Nigeria and the wider Sahel region are increasingly adopting advanced technologies, including drones, encrypted communication platforms and cryptocurrencies, to strengthen their operations and evade security measures. The UN said the growing use of technology by armed groups has improved their ability to coordinate attacks, gather intelligence, move funds and communicate securely, creating new challenges for governments and security agencies involved in counterterrorism efforts. According to the organisation, terrorist networks in the region are adapting quickly to modern tools, making traditional approaches to monitoring and disrupting their activities more difficult. The warning comes amid persistent insecurity across parts of Northern Nigeria and the Sahel, where armed groups have continued to carry out attacks against civilians, security forces and communities. The UN also disclosed that insecurity in the region has forced 6.8 million people to flee their homes, with women and children suffering the greatest humanitarian impact. Displaced populations face challenges including limited access to food, healthcare, education, shelter and protection services.

Humanitarian agencies have expressed concern that prolonged conflict is worsening poverty and instability, particularly in communities already affected by climate pressures, unemployment and weak social infrastructure. The UN urged countries in the region to strengthen cooperation, improve intelligence sharing and invest in measures that address both security threats and the underlying conditions that allow extremist groups to recruit and expand.

Security experts have also called for greater collaboration between governments, technology stakeholders and international partners to counter the misuse of emerging technologies by criminal and terrorist organisations. The latest warning highlights the evolving nature of security threats in the Sahel and the need for coordinated regional and international responses to protect civilians and restore stability.