The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), is actively collaborating with major social media platforms to identify and delete accounts used by terrorists and criminal groups to promote illicit activities, display looted items, publicize operations, and raise funds. This initiative marks a significant escalation in our efforts to disrupt the digital infrastructure exploited by violent extremists.
In a year-end briefing today, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, Coordinator of the NCTC, announced that security agencies have engaged with platforms including TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and X (formerly Twitter) to remove numerous such accounts.
"Terrorists have been using these platforms to showcase their loot on TikTok, conduct live streams of their activities, and communicate with supporters," said Maj.-Gen. Laka. "We have seen a marked reduction in such content as a result of these takedowns, but we remain vigilant as these groups adapt by using aliases and unverified accounts."
The government has also intensified efforts to track and disrupt terror financing, particularly ransom payments, which remain a primary funding source for kidnappers and bandits.
Criminals often exploit point-of-sale (POS) operators by providing their contact numbers for fund transfers, making tracking challenging. "Our agencies are working tirelessly to trace these payments, arrest those involved, and dismantle the financing networks," Maj.-Gen. Laka added.
This includes arrests, prosecutions, asset recoveries, and seizures in line with international anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing standards set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
Nigeria's progress in meeting FATF requirements has been bolstered by coordinated investigations involving security agencies, financial intelligence units, and the judiciary.
Despite challenges posed by evolving terrorist tactics, porous borders in the Sahel region, and recent coups in neighboring countries that have strengthened regional terrorist alliances, the Federal Government is committed to leading counter-terrorism efforts in West Africa.
Looking ahead to 2026, Maj.-Gen. Laka affirmed: "We will up our game both physically and digitally to ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians. Our resolve to combat terrorism in all its forms remains unwavering."
The Federal Government calls on social media platforms to continue prioritizing the removal of content that promotes terrorism and criminality, and urges citizens to report suspicious online activities to relevant authorities.