The military’s Joint Task Force (JTF) has warned residents across Nigeria’s North-East to remain vigilant during the Eid El Kabir festivities, citing intelligence that suggests Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters may attempt isolated attacks targeting civilians.
In a statement issued, the Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, said the insurgents could seek to exploit the festive period through suicide bombings and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), particularly in crowded public areas.
The warning comes ahead of the 2026 Eid El Kabir celebrations scheduled for this week.
Despite the threat assessment, the military assured residents that extensive security measures have been activated across the region. According to the statement, troops, surveillance teams and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets have been deployed to critical and vulnerable locations to prevent any security breach.
“Patrols have been intensified, and security forces are operating in close coordination with sister agencies, the CJTF, and community vigilance groups to forestall any threat and guarantee a secure festive period for all residents,” Lt Col Uba said.
The military urged worshippers to observe Eid prayers and celebrations close to their homes and familiar communities, while avoiding large gatherings where possible.
It also advised residents to remain alert in crowded places such as markets, motor parks, banking halls and prayer grounds, and to immediately report suspicious individuals, unattended objects or unusual movements to security agencies.
“Cooperate fully with security personnel during patrols and screening operations,” the statement said.
The JTF further cautioned against unnecessary travel, especially at night or in areas with limited security presence, and warned members of the public against spreading unverified information capable of causing panic.
“Rely only on official information from verified government and security channels,” the military added.
The Theatre Command called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations and community stakeholders to support ongoing security efforts by encouraging the timely reporting of credible intelligence before and during the celebrations.
“Your cooperation with security forces remains invaluable to the success of ongoing operations,” the statement said.
Operation HADIN KAI maintained that troops remain fully prepared to respond to any threat and insisted that security forces remain in control of the situation.
“The Command remains resolute in its determination to deny terrorists any freedom of action and ensure that the Eid El Kabir celebrations proceed in an atmosphere of peace, safety, and dignity for all,” the statement said.
The military also extended Eid El Kabir greetings to Muslim faithful, wishing them a peaceful and rewarding celebration.
