The Joint Task Force (JTF), Operation HADIN KAI, has warned residents of the North-East and the general public to remain on high security alert over possible attacks by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists during the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Media Information Officer of the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the military said intelligence reports indicated that terrorists could attempt isolated attacks targeting civilians during the festive period.
According to the statement, the attacks may involve suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), especially in crowded locations and areas with high population concentration.
The warning comes ahead of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration scheduled for Wednesday.
The JTF, however, assured residents that security measures had been strengthened across critical and vulnerable locations, with troops, surveillance operations, and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets fully activated to prevent any 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,” the statement said.
The military also advised members of the public to celebrate within their local communities and avoid large open gatherings where possible.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant in crowded places such as markets, motor parks, banking halls, and prayer grounds, while promptly reporting suspicious movements, unattended objects, or unfamiliar persons to security agencies.
The JTF further appealed to the public to cooperate with security personnel during stop-and-search operations and avoid unnecessary movements, particularly at night or in areas with limited security presence.
It also cautioned against spreading unverified information or rumours capable of causing panic, advising residents to rely only on official information from verified government and security channels.
The Theatre Command called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations, and community stakeholders to support ongoing security efforts by encouraging residents to provide credible intelligence to security agencies.
Operation HADIN KAI reassured residents that troops remain fully prepared and committed to ensuring peaceful and safe Eid-el-Kabir celebrations across the region.
“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.
