The War must be Sustained: An Integrated Theoretical Perspective of the Cyberspace-Boko Haram Terrorism Nexus in Nigeria

The cyberspace-Boko Haram terrorism nexus is on the increase in Nigeria. Yet, only a handful of studies have explored the criminogenic forces and interactions that connect the two phenomena. Five theories were integrated to address the problem. Using theory deconstruction approach, insight into the underlying operational procedures and dynamics of the group and its manipulation of the cyberspace to facilitate terrorism was gained. The choice of cyberspace for promoting Boko Haram activities is not farfetched: We found evidence to justify the fact that terrorists are becoming more invisible and invincible, since they now hide in the cyberspace to recruit and (re)train members, elicit and disseminate information and intelligence, source for and obtain funds, and acquire weapons, logistics and supplies. Since both the offence and the offenders involve syndicates, with regional and global networks, local and international cyber security partnership becomes imperative for Nigeria at this point in history. Such co-operation holds strong promise for evidence-based harm reduction and safer space, which becomes realisable through intelligence-led law enforcement and constant cyber-patrol/surveillance. Proactive, rather than reactive cyber counterintelligence and counterterrorism, is also recommended.