International Journal of Sub-Saharan African Research (IJSSAR)

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a defining concept in contemporary security discourse, analysis, policy, and strategic thinking. It plays a central role in military and security operations, gaining strategic relevance as a critical tool for national defense and as an instrument for mitigating threats in a hostile security climate characterised by terrorism, cybercrime, maritime crimes, insurgency, and banditry. In Nigeria, where security threats have become increasingly sophisticated, technology-driven, and repetitive, conventional responses are proving inadequate in addressing the scale, scope, and frequency of incidents.
Objective: This study investigates the application of AI in intelligence gathering and national security management in Nigeria, with emphasis on its potential to transform security operations from reactive to proactive measures.
Method: The study employed a qualitative research design, relying on secondary data drawn from academic literature, policy documents, and security reports. Data were subjected to content and thematic analysis, while Rational Choice Theory was adopted as the theoretical framework to explain decision-making processes in the application of AI to security management. Results: Findings revealed that AI enhances intelligence gathering and national security through real-time data analysis, automation of surveillance and reconnaissance, and predictive modeling of emerging threats. It also showed that AI facilitates advanced data analytics and strengthens security operations by improving the capacity to anticipate, prevent, and mitigate security incidents.
Conclusion: The study concludes that AI holds significant potential to revolutionize intelligence gathering and national security management in Nigeria. By shifting from reactive approaches to proactive strategies, AI can improve the efficiency of security responses and reduce vulnerability to complex threats.
Unique Contribution: This research contributes to the growing literature on AI in African security contexts, highlighting its capacity to reshape intelligence operations and address persistent gaps in Nigeria’s security architecture.
Key Recommendation: The Nigerian government should integrate AI into its national security framework by investing in technological infrastructure, capacity building, and inter-agency collaboration. Policy should prioritise the ethical use of AI, while addressing root causes of insecurity such as poverty and poor governance to ensure that technological adoption produces sustainable outcomes.