By Oluwakemi Kindness
The Joint Task Force (JTF) under Operation HADIN KAI has placed residents of the North-East on high 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 Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel, Sani Uba, the military says intelligence reports indicate that insurgents may attempt isolated attacks targeting civilians, especially in crowded public places.
According to the statement, the terrorists could deploy suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in areas with high human traffic as Muslim faithful prepare for the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir festivities on Wednesday.
To prevent any security breach, the Theatre Command said troops, surveillance teams, and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets have been fully deployed to vulnerable and critical locations across the region.
The military added that patrols have been intensified, while security agencies are working closely with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and community vigilance groups to ensure a peaceful celebration.
Residents are advised to remain vigilant throughout the festive period by avoiding unnecessary movement, especially at night, and staying away from crowded gatherings where possible.
The JTF also urged members of the public to immediately report suspicious persons, unattended objects, or unusual activities to security agencies.
Citizens were further encouraged to cooperate with security personnel during stop-and-search operations and to avoid spreading unverified information capable of creating panic.
The command called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations, and community stakeholders to support ongoing security efforts by encouraging residents to share credible intelligence with authorities.
Operation HADIN KAI reassured residents that troops remain on standby and fully prepared to respond to any threat, stressing that security forces are determined to ensure a peaceful and safe Eid-el-Kabir celebration across the North-East.
