During Eid al‑Adha, Military Calls for Vigilance as Security Measures Are Implemented Across the North East

The Nigerian military’s Operation Hadin Kai has called on residents of the North East to stay alert as Muslims prepare for the 2026 Eid‑el‑Kabir celebrations, stating that sufficient security measures are in place to ensure a peaceful event.

Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer of Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, made the remarks in a statement released on Monday.

The statement extended warm greetings to all Muslim faithful ahead of the Sallah celebration scheduled for Wednesday, May 28, 2026.

The Theatre Command said it has arranged comprehensive security measures well in advance of the festivities to guarantee a safe environment for everyone.

It added that protecting lives and property across the region remains its top priority.

Nonetheless, the military warned of potential threats during the festive period.

“Credible intelligence available to the Command indicates the possibility of isolated attempts by remnant Boko Haram Terrorist (BHT) and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) elements to exploit the festive period to carry out attacks against civilian targets using suicide bombers and IEDs, particularly in areas of high population concentration,” the statement read.

“The Theatre Command wishes to assure the public that these threats have been thoroughly anticipated.”

“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 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 added.

The military also issued safety guidelines to residents, urging them to celebrate responsibly and remain vigilant. It advised people to conduct Eid prayers and festivities close to their homes and familiar localities.

Residents were told to be watchful in crowded areas such as markets, motor parks, banks and prayer grounds, and to promptly report “any suspicious persons, unattended objects, or unusual movements” to security agencies.