Security agencies have intensified protective measures across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to launch coordinated patrols to safeguard churches, worship centres, and border communitiesvulnerable to criminal attacks.
The joint operation, which began on November 9, 2025, involves personnel from the FCT Police Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, the Department of State Services (DSS), local hunters, and vigilante groups.
The exercise covered major routes linking Bwari to Kaduna State, Bwari to Niger State, and Gwagwalada to Niger State, which are identified as high-risk zones for banditry and kidnapping.
According to the FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Miller Dantawaye, the operation is part of a broader strategy to strengthen security during the ember months, a period often associated with a spike in criminal activity.
Speaking on behalf of the command, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, said the initiative aims to boost public confidence, deter criminal activity, and ensure safe worship for residents.
“Church leaders in the affected areas have been reassured of the Commissioner’s commitment to their safety,” Adeh said. “They’ve also been advised to adopt preventive measures such as avoiding late-night gatherings, maintaining communication with security operatives, and reporting suspicious activities promptly.”
The security sweep, which would run from 6:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., combined intelligence-driven patrols with terrain-based surveillance. Several access routes frequently used by criminals have been blocked, while permanent security posts have been established within forested corridors to prevent infiltration.
The operation also highlights collaboration between agencies: the Anti-Kidnapping Unit provides tactical support, the DSS contributes intelligence analysis, while local hunters and vigilantes offer in-depth knowledge of the terrain.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and cooperate fully with security personnel. The command emphasized that public safety is a shared responsibility and encouraged residents to report suspicious movements via the following lines: 08032003913, 08068587311, CRU 08107314192, or PRO’s office 07038979348.
CP Dantawaye reassured residents that the FCT remains safe, pledging continued adaptation of security strategies to protect all communities, particularly places of worship.
The move comes amid rising concerns over attacks on religious centres across Nigeria, making proactive security patrols a top priority for law enforcement agencies.
