Eid-el-Kabir: Military warns of possible terrorist attacks in North-East

The Joint Task Force (JTF), North-East Operation HADIN KAI, has alerted residents of the region to the possibility of isolated terrorist attacks during the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.

It warned that Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province may attempt to target civilians using suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices.

The warning was contained in a statement issued on Monday by Sani Uba, Media Information Officer of the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI.

According to the military, intelligence reports indicate that the terrorist groups could exploit the festive season and crowded public areas to launch attacks, especially in locations with high population concentration.

The alert comes ahead of Wednesday’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration, when Muslim faithful across the country are expected to gather for prayers and festivities.

Despite the threat, the military assured residents that extensive security arrangements had already been put in place across the North-East to ensure a peaceful celebration.

The statement disclosed that troops, surveillance teams, and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance assets had been fully activated and deployed to critical and vulnerable locations across the theatre of operations.

It added that patrols had also been intensified, while security forces were working in close collaboration with sister agencies, the Civilian Joint Task Force and local vigilance groups to prevent any security 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 read.

The military strongly advised residents to remain vigilant throughout the celebration period and avoid actions that could expose them to danger.

It urged members of the public to conduct Eid prayers and festivities within their immediate communities and familiar surroundings where possible, rather than travelling long distances or gathering in large open spaces.

Residents were also cautioned to exercise heightened vigilance in crowded locations such as markets, motor parks, banking halls and prayer grounds.

The JTF further called on the public to promptly report suspicious persons, unattended objects, or unusual movements to the nearest military checkpoint, police station, or civil-military liaison office.

It also appealed to residents to cooperate with security personnel during patrols and screening operations, avoid unnecessary movements at night or in poorly secured areas, and desist from spreading unverified information capable of causing panic.

“Refrain from spreading unverified information or rumours capable of causing public panic. Rely only on official information from verified government and security channels,” the military warned.

The Theatre Command equally appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations, and community stakeholders to sensitise residents and encourage the timely sharing of credible intelligence with security agencies before and during the festivities.

“Your cooperation with security forces remains invaluable to the success of ongoing operations,” the statement added.

Operation HADIN KAI, however, reassured residents of the North-East that troops remained fully prepared and in firm control of the security situation across the region.

The command reiterated its commitment to denying terrorists freedom of action and ensuring that the Eid-el-Kabir celebration is observed in an atmosphere of peace, safety and dignity.

“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 said.

The Theatre Command also wished Muslim faithful across the country a peaceful and rewarding Eid-el-Kabir celebration.