Eid El Kabir: Nigerian Military Exposes Boko Haram and ISWAP Plots

The Headquarters, Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), has notified the public that extensive security measures have been established well before the Eid El Kabir celebrations to maintain a safe environment for everyone.

According to credible intelligence available to the Command, isolated attempts by remaining Boko Haram terrorists and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) elements could be made to exploit the festive period, targeting civilians with suicide bombers and IEDs, especially in densely populated areas.

A statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation Hadin Kai, assures the public that these threats have been thoroughly anticipated.

The statement reads: “Ahead of Wednesday’s celebrations, troops have been forward‑deployed to critical and vulnerable locations across all sectors of the Theatre. Surveillance and ISR assets have been fully activated, patrols 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.”

In addition, the public is strongly advised to observe the following security guidance in the days leading up to and throughout the celebrations:

• Conduct Eid prayers and festivities as close to your homes and familiar localities as possible, and avoid large open gatherings where practicable.

• Exercise heightened vigilance in crowded public spaces such as markets, motor parks, banking halls, and prayer grounds.

• Report any suspicious persons, unattended objects, or unusual movements to the nearest military checkpoint, police station, or civil‑military liaison point immediately.

• Cooperate fully with security personnel during patrols and screening operations.

• Avoid unnecessary movement, particularly at night or in areas with limited security presence.

• 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 has called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations and community stakeholders to actively engage their communities and encourage the timely reporting of credible security information ahead of and during the celebration period. Cooperation with security forces remains invaluable to the success of ongoing operations.

Operation Hadin Kai reassures all residents of the North East that troops are on standby, fully prepared, and firmly in control.

It added, “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.”