The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has assured residents of the North-East region of adequate security ahead of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, while warning of possible isolated attacks by remnants of Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists.
In a press release issued on Monday by the Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the military said extensive security measures had already been activated across the theatre of operation to guarantee peaceful celebrations during the Muslim festival slated for Wednesday, May 28, 2026.
According to the statement, credible intelligence suggested that remnants of Boko Haram Terrorists (BHT) and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters might attempt to exploit the festive period to launch attacks on civilian targets, including the possible deployment of suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), especially in crowded locations.
Despite the threat alert, the Command assured residents that troops and other security operatives were fully prepared to prevent any breach of security.
“The Theatre Command wishes to assure the public that these threats have been thoroughly anticipated,” the statement noted.
It added that troops had been forward-deployed to vulnerable and strategic locations across all sectors in the North-East, while surveillance and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets had been fully activated.
The military further disclosed that patrols had been intensified, with security forces working in close collaboration with sister agencies, the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), and community vigilance groups to maintain peace throughout the celebration period.
Operation HADIN KAI also issued security guidelines to residents, urging worshippers to observe Eid prayers close to their homes and avoid unnecessary large gatherings where possible.
Residents were advised to remain vigilant in crowded places such as markets, motor parks, banking halls and prayer grounds, and to promptly report suspicious movements, unattended objects or strange individuals to security agencies.
The Command further urged the public to cooperate with security personnel during stop-and-search operations and avoid unnecessary night movements, particularly in areas with limited security presence.
It also cautioned against the spread of unverified information capable of causing panic, advising citizens to rely only on official communication channels for security updates.
Operation HADIN KAI called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations and community stakeholders to support ongoing security efforts by encouraging timely sharing of credible intelligence with authorities.
Reaffirming its commitment to defeating insurgency in the region, the military said troops remained on high alert and fully determined to deny terrorists any opportunity to disrupt the celebrations.
“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 added.
