By Lauretta Jimba

In today’s world, where the digital landscape plays an increasingly critical role in National security, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into cyber defense strategies has become more essential. The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas provides valuable insights into how AI can be used to reduce cyber threats and strengthen cyber defenses. By adopting AI-driven approaches inspired by global experiences, Nigeria can safeguard its digital infrastructure, prevent potential threats, and enhance overall national security resilience. This article therefore explores how leveraging AI can not only protect Nigeria’s interests but also pave the way for sustainable development amidst evolving global threats.

The Israel-Hamas War has extended into the cyberspace, where both the state and non-state actors employ sophisticated tactics to disrupt and gain strategic advantages. Israel, known for its technological expertise, has heavily invested in AI-driven cyber defense mechanisms. These systems have proven effective in mitigating attacks, safeguarding critical infrastructure, and maintaining operational security. For example, Israel uses machine learning algorithms to analyze massive volumes of data and identify abnormalities or potential dangers as part of its AI threat detection efforts. Therefore, by taking precautionary measures, cyber threats can be quickly neutralized before they have a chance to do a lot of harm, and the continuous adaptability of AI systems will help ensure that defenses evolve to counter new threats.

Recent cyber threats in Nigeria, including those attributed to ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province), have highlighted major vulnerabilities in Nigeria’s digital infrastructure. In recent years, ISWAP has employed drones for surveillance and attacks in Nigeria. These drones are used to gather intelligence, monitor military movements, and even carry out targeted strikes on security forces and civilians. For example, in April 2022, ISWAP used drones to launch a targeted strike on a military base in Borno State, Nigeria, causing significant casualties among security forces. The adaptation of new attack strategies by ISWAP underscores the evolving nature of cyber threats in Nigeria and emphasizes the need for advance cyber defense strategies to counter such threats effectively.

According to Security Magazine, ISWAP hackers targeted Nigerian government website and financial institutions, aiming to steal sensitive information and disrupt services. In early 2023, Nigerian Cybersecurity and Cybercrime agency reported that ISWAP was implicated in a coordinated phishing attack against Nigerian banks. This attack aimed to gain unauthorized access to critical financial data, highlighting the group’s evolving tactics in cyber warfare

Nigeria which is dealing with a variety of security threats from cybercriminals and terrorist organizations such as ISWAP can draw valuable lessons from Israel’s strategy for using AI into Cyber defense. Nigeria could use important strategies such as:

Intelligence Gathering and Analysis: With its ability to sort through a large amount of data from several sources, such as social media, communication networks, and the dark web, AI can improve Nigeria’s intelligence gathering capabilities. For instance, in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, AI-driven analytics are used to identify trends, anticipate possible risks, and provide security authorities with useful information. This information can help with strategic choices and mitigation of new dangers.

Training and Capacity Building: Developing a workforce with the necessary skills is essential to using AI for cyber defense. Nigeria can create a pool of cybersecurity professionals versed in AI technology by funding training initiatives and forming alliances with academic Institutions and IT firms. Nigeria’s ability to keep ahead of evolving cyber dangers would therefore be ensured by ongoing education and skill development.

Enhanced Incident Response:

In the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies enable prompt identification and mitigation of cyber threats, limiting their impact and expediting the restoration to normal operations. In the event of a cyberattack, AI-driven solutions may make crisis response more effective and coordinated.

Although incorporating AI into Nigeria’s cyber defense has many potential advantages, there are a few obstacles and factors to consider. The ongoing Israel-Hamas war illustrates the complexities and ethical dilemmas of using AI in military operations, such as concerns over:

1. Data Ethics and Privacy:

The application of AI to cyber defense brings up ethical and data privacy issues. For instance, in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, the use of AI in surveillance and military operations raises significant concerns about data privacy and ethical implications. To guarantee that AI systems function within moral and legal bounds, and safeguard the rights and privacy of Nigerian residents, the country must develop explicit legislation and regulations.

2. Infrastructure and Investment:

The Israel-Hamas war has highlighted the importance of modern cyber capabilities, with both sides utilizing cyber methods to obtain tactical and strategic benefits. To develop and maintain AI- driven cyber defense systems, substantial infrastructure and technological investments are required. To protect against cyber threats, Nigeria needs to allocate more funds and resources to establish a strong cyber defense system.

3. Continuous Adaptation:

Cyber threats are constantly evolving, necessitating continuous adaptation and updates to AI systems. Nigeria must ensure that its cyber defense strategies remain agile and responsive to emerging threats.

The Israel-Hamas War highlights the significant role of Artificial Intelligence in cyber defense. By Adopting AI solutions, Nigeria can strengthen its cyber capabilities and safeguard its infrastructure against cyber threats. This is particularly important considering recent cyber threats from ISWAP, which have targeted critical infrastructure and financial systems. Therefore, key strategies such as intelligence gathering, training and capacity building, and swift incident response are important elements in Nigeria’s security and resilience in the digital age.