A Critical Examination of Radicalisation Narratives and Counter-Narratives in Online Islamic Content Targeting Nigerian Muslim Youth

This study critically examines the narratives and counter-narratives present in online Islamic content targeting Nigerian Muslim youth, with particular focus on radicalisation risks and prevention messaging. The proliferation of social media and video-sharing platforms has made extremist Islamic content increasingly accessible, while Islamic institutions and government agencies have struggled to develop equally compelling counter-narratives. The study employs a qualitative content analysis approach, systematically analysing 120 sampled online Islamic content items distributed on YouTube, Telegram, and Facebook targeting Nigerian audiences, supplemented by in-depth interviews with 20 Islamic scholars and 15 youth programme facilitators in Kano, Abuja, and Lagos. Data are analysed using narrative analysis and critical discourse analysis. Findings reveal that radicalising content employs grievance framing, selective Quranic citation, and promises of community belonging, while existing counter-narratives from mainstream Islamic institutions are perceived by youth as less emotionally resonant and technologically sophisticated. A research gap exists in understanding how urban educated Muslim youth specifically engage with and critically evaluate online Islamic content. The study recommends the development of a coordinated national Islamic counter-narrative digital strategy, engagement of qualified Islamic scholars as digital communicators, and media literacy programmes integrated into Islamic Studies curricula at tertiary level. Keywords: radicalisation, counter-narratives, online Islamic content, Muslim youth, Nigeria.