Terrorist groups in Nigeria are increasingly using TikTok and other social media platforms to spread propaganda, recruit followers and challenge official narratives.
Security experts warn that the trend exposes weaknesses in Nigeria’s digital governance systems and creates new national security risks.
The concern gained attention after a Boko Haram faction reportedly released a video on TikTok following an attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State.
The group allegedly killed and abducted more than 170 women and children during the attack.
About a week after the incident, a 90-second video appeared on TikTok.
The video mocked government authorities and accused them of downplaying the number of abducted victims.
An account identified as Abu Muhammad Abba shared the clip. Security observers believe the name may be a pseudonym, a common practice among extremist groups.
The video quickly went viral. Soon after, TikTok removed the content or deactivated the account.
However, recent checks show that the account has resurfaced and It now shares propaganda messages and sermons linked to jihadist ideologues, including Boko Haram founder Muhammad Yusuf.
Security analysts say the video represents a broader shift in terrorist operations.
Extremist groups no longer rely only on physical attacks. They now use digital platforms to spread their messages and influence public opinion.
Social media allows them to reach audiences across geographical boundaries and also helps them challenge official accounts of events and maintain visibility despite military pressure.
Experts say these platforms have become powerful tools for recruitment, radicalisation and psychological warfare.
The development has renewed attention on Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) which includes systems that support digital identity, payments, data exchange and trusted communication between governments and citizens.
Governments often discuss DPI in terms of economic growth and public service delivery. Security experts, however, now view it as a key component of national security.
They argue that weak digital governance creates opportunities for extremist groups to exploit online spaces.
As Nigeria expands internet access and digitises public services, terrorist groups continue to adapt.
Experts warn that digital threats now complement traditional security challenges.
The Woro-related TikTok video highlighted how extremists can use technology to spread fear and shape public perception.
Analysts say authorities must do more than remove harmful content. They must also strengthen digital monitoring systems and improve coordination among security agencies.
