KEY POINTS
- Cybercrime is on the rise, affecting various sectors.​
- Insurgent groups continue to pose significant threats.​
- Mob justice incidents are increasing due to distrust in the legal system.
In Nigeria’s rapidly evolving security landscape, staying informed about emerging threats and trends is crucial.
Here are five key security developments that Nigerians should closely monitor.
Surge in cybercrime activities
The analysis of global cyber-attacks positions Nigeria as one of the twenty nations which face the highest rate of cyber threats.
In January 2025, Nigeria moved from the 13th position in December 2024 to the 11th, highlighting the escalating threat.
The sectors most affected include education, government, and telecommunications.
Cybercriminals are increasingly leveraging advanced tactics, such as AI-driven phishing attacks and deepfakes, making scams more sophisticated and harder to detect.
Additionally, pig butchering scams pose a significant risk because criminals trick victims into investing money through fraudulent schemes.
Intensification of insurgent activities
The northeastern part of Nigeria remains under threat from insurgent organizations that include Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
The persistent threat from insurgent groups became clearer when attackers coordinated military base raids in Borno State which led to fatal casualties. ​
Moreover, the terrorist situation becomes more complex due to the formation of new organizations including Lakurawa which operates under ISIS guidance in the northwest.
Security operations carried out by these extremist groups in Sokoto and Kebbi states have produced civilian casualties while intensifying state tensions. ​
Escalation of mob justice incidents
A disturbing rising pattern of mob attacks emerges from the suspicions that members direct towards criminal activities.
Recent vigilante actions by a mob in southern Nigeria led to the death of 16 people during a kidnapping investigation.
Since 2019, at least 391 mob killings were recorded as people displayed increasing distrust toward legal processes.
Expansion of cybercrime-as-a-service platforms
Due to the openness of cybercrime tools, the technological requirements for launching complex attacks have declined so any person regardless of skill level can execute sophisticated attacks.
Several online platforms operate to deploy ransomware attacks and execute data breaches, these services elevate the quantity and diversity of cyber threats. ​
Strengthening of international security collaborations
The increasing security breakdowns within Nigeria triggered the country to actively develop international partnerships.
Nigeria has intensified its security relations with India, particularly through their joint efforts on maritime security and counterterrorism operations.
The joint initiatives work to improve data exchange while combating dangers in Gulf of Guinea waters. ​
In conclusion, Nigeria security trends show a rising wave of insurgency activities, cybercrime and growing mob violence incidents.
Knowledge of ongoing progress is vital for Nigerians who want to handle imminent challenges.
Monitoring Nigeria security trends will play a key role in enhancing national security.
