The Nigerian Police Force and other security agencies have heightened security nationwide following intelligence indicating plans by suspected terrorists and other non-state actors to attack schools, places of worship, NYSC orientation camps and recreation centres during the ember months.
The intelligence prompted the Department of Operations at the Force Headquarters to circulate a security alert to police formations, zonal and state commands and tactical units across the country.
The alert was also directed to specialised units, including the Police Counter-Terrorism Units, Bomb Disposal Unit and Police Mobile Force.
According to the alert, there is an “increased mobilisation of terrorist elements for possible coordinated attacks” on places of worship, schools, NYSC orientation camps and other vulnerable locations.
The warning comes ahead of the resumption of schools for the 2026/2027 academic session. Security authorities expressed concern that potential attacks could coincide with the reopening of academic institutions, prompting increased security measures around schools and other locations considered vulnerable.
The intelligence has also reportedly been shared with sister security agencies as part of ongoing joint security operations.
The reported intelligence indicated the movement of armed elements from Katsina through Kaduna to Plateau State.
It further suggested that suspected Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP, operatives and local collaborators were conducting surveillance and reconnaissance of potential targets.
Also Read:Â Police detain one over Enugu building collapse
Following the intelligence, police formations and commands were directed to strengthen security around schools, places of worship, NYSC orientation camps and other vulnerable locations.
Personnel were instructed to maintain heightened vigilance and promptly report suspicious persons, vehicles, movements or objects through established security channels.
The directive also called for intelligence-led surveillance, increased patrols, stop-and-search operations, access control and rapid-response arrangements around identified vulnerable locations.
Commissioners of Police were further directed to strengthen security at state borders, entry and exit routes and other critical approaches.
The measures are aimed at preventing the infiltration and movement of armed elements and improving the ability of security personnel to respond quickly to emerging threats.
Military authorities also confirmed awareness of the intelligence. The authorities said they were monitoring the situation and had placed troops on alert for possible interdiction deployments.
The heightened security comes as security agencies seek to prevent potential attacks during a period typically associated with increased movement and gatherings across the country.
Authorities have urged security personnel to remain vigilant while relying on intelligence-led operations to identify and disrupt potential threats before they materialise.
Vanguard
