The Joint Task Force, North-East Operation HADIN KAI, on Monday warned residents of possible attacks by Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province during the Eid-El-Kabir celebration, urging heightened vigilance as terrorists may exploit the festive period to target civilians.
The military said intelligence reports indicated the possibility of isolated attacks involving suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices, especially in densely populated areas and crowded public spaces.
The warning was contained in a statement issued by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North-East) Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, ahead of the 2026 Eid-El-Kabir celebration scheduled for Wednesday.
According to the military, troops have been strategically deployed to critical and vulnerable locations across the North-East, while Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance assets have been activated to prevent any security breach during the festive period.
It added that patrols had been intensified, with security forces working closely with sister agencies, the Civilian Joint Task Force and local vigilance groups to forestall threats and guarantee residents a peaceful celebration.
The statement read, “There are indications of the possibility of isolated attempts by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province terrorists to exploit the festive period to carry out attacks against civilians.
“These attacks may employ the use of suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices, particularly in areas of high population concentration.”
The JTF urged residents to conduct Eid prayers and festivities close to their homes and familiar surroundings while avoiding large open gatherings where practicable.
It also advised residents to remain vigilant in crowded locations, including markets, motor parks, banking halls and prayer grounds, and immediately report suspicious persons, unattended objects or unusual movements to the nearest military checkpoint, police station or civil-military liaison office.
The military further called for full cooperation with security personnel during patrols and screening operations, cautioning against unnecessary movement at night or in areas with limited security presence.
It warned members of the public against spreading unverified information or rumours capable of causing panic, urging residents to rely only on verified government and security channels for information.
The Theatre Command also appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations and community stakeholders to mobilise their communities toward timely sharing of credible intelligence before and during the Eid celebration.
“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 firmly in control of the security situation.
“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 military stated.
“The Theatre Command wishes the entire Muslim community a peaceful and rewarding Eid-El-Kabir celebration.”
