Boko Haram Joins Twitter

In January 2015, Boko Haram created its own media outlet and opened its first Twitter account under the name al-Urwa al-Wuthqa, or “the Incessant Handhold.” The account allowed the group to release content more regularly, about every three to four days, and connect to the Islamic State’s online network. The interaction between Boko Haram's new Twitter account and those of known members of the Islamic State suggested a growing nexus. For example, a video first uploaded by a person known to be associated with ISIS was immediately released by Boko Haram's Twitter account, and then reposted by other known ISIS Twitter accounts.Boko Haram’s new videos were more stylish and of much higher quality, with special effects and translation into English and French. Experts have suggested that the Islamic State may have sent media producers to Nigeria or that Boko Haram video footage was sent to Libya, the Middle East or even Europe for production and editing.