Joint Task Force (JTF) has warned Nigerians, particularly residents of the North-East, to remain vigilant during the Eid El Kabir celebrations over possible attacks by Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province.
Gatekeepers News reports that in a statement issued on Monday, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, spokesperson for Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, said intelligence reports indicate that terrorist groups may attempt isolated attacks targeting civilians during the festive period.
According to the statement, the attacks could involve suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), especially in densely populated areas.
The warning comes ahead of the 2026 Eid El Kabir celebration scheduled for Wednesday.
Despite the threat, the JTF assured residents that security measures have been strengthened across critical and vulnerable locations, with troops, surveillance operations, and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets fully activated.
“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 task force strongly advised members of the public to celebrate close to their homes and avoid unnecessary exposure to crowded public spaces where possible.
Residents were urged to remain alert in markets, motor parks, banking halls, prayer grounds, and other busy locations.
“Report any suspicious persons, unattended objects, or unusual movements to the nearest military checkpoint, police station, or civil-military liaison point immediately,” the JTF advised.
It also called on citizens to cooperate with security personnel during patrols and screening operations, avoid unnecessary movement at night, and refrain from spreading unverified information capable of causing panic.
“Rely only on official information from verified government and security channels,” the statement added.
The Theatre Command further appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations, and community stakeholders to support security efforts by encouraging residents to promptly share credible intelligence.
“Your cooperation with security forces remains invaluable to the success of ongoing operations,” the command stated.
Operation HADIN KAI reassured residents that troops remain fully prepared to counter any threat and maintain peace throughout the celebration period.
“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 concluded.
