The military has assured residents of Nigeria’s North-East region of adequate security arrangements ahead of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, despite concerns over possible attacks by insurgent groups.
The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, said security measures had been strengthened across the theatre to guarantee peaceful festivities scheduled for Wednesday, May 28.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, said troops had been strategically deployed to safeguard residents during the celebration.
According to the military, intelligence reports indicate that remnants of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province may attempt isolated attacks targeting crowded civilian areas using improvised explosive devices and suicide bombers.
The statement read, “Credible intelligence available to the command indicates the possibility of isolated attempts by remnant Boko Haram terrorists and Islamic State West Africa Province elements to exploit the festive period to carry out attacks against civilian targets.”
However, the command assured residents that proactive measures had already been put in place to neutralise any threat.
“The Theatre Command wishes to assure the public that these threats have been thoroughly anticipated,” the statement added.
The military disclosed that troops had been forward-deployed to vulnerable locations, while surveillance systems and intelligence-gathering mechanisms had been intensified across operational sectors.
It also noted that security agencies were collaborating with sister agencies, the Civilian Joint Task Force, and local vigilance groups to maintain peace and prevent any security breach during the festive period.
Residents were urged to remain alert and avoid crowded locations where possible, while promptly reporting suspicious movements, abandoned objects, or unusual activities to security authorities.
The military further advised residents to observe Eid prayers and celebrations within familiar environments close to their homes.
The statement urged citizens to “exercise heightened vigilance in crowded public spaces such as markets, motor parks, banking halls, and prayer grounds.”
Operation HADIN KAI also cautioned against the spread of unverified information capable of creating fear or panic among residents.
The command appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations, and community stakeholders to support security operations through timely sharing of credible information.
“Your cooperation with security forces remains invaluable to the success of ongoing operations,” the military stated.
Reaffirming its readiness, the command maintained that troops remained fully prepared to ensure a safe and peaceful Eid-el-Kabir celebration across the North-East.
“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 added.
