By Saleh Perkush
The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North-East), Operation HADIN KAI, has warned residents of the North-East to remain vigilant ahead of the 2026 Eid al-Kabir celebrations, revealing that remnants of Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province are planning possible attacks during the festive period.
The military, however, assured citizens that extensive security measures had already been activated across the region to ensure peaceful celebrations and prevent any security breach.
In a statement released on Monday by Operation HADIN KAI Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the theater command said credible information available to the military indicates that terrorists may attempt to target civilians through suicide bombings and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), especially in crowded public places.
According to the statement, the planned attacks are expected to focus on areas with high population concentrations, including markets, parking lots, banking halls and places of prayer during the Eid holidays scheduled for Wednesday, May 28, 2026.
The command revealed that troops had already been deployed to critical and vulnerable locations across all sectors of the theater of operations, while intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) assets had been fully activated to detect and neutralize threats.
He added that aggressive patrolling and coordinated security operations involving sister agencies, members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and local vigilance groups were also intensified to deny the terrorists freedom of action during the celebrations.
While extending Eid greetings to Muslim worshipers, the military urged residents to avoid unnecessary exposure and strictly adhere to safety advisories issued by the authorities.
Residents have been specifically advised to hold Eid prayers and celebrations close to their homes and family environments, avoiding large open gatherings where possible.
The military also called on the public to remain vigilant in crowded areas and to immediately report suspicious persons, unattended objects or unusual movements to security agencies.
Citizens were also urged to cooperate with security personnel during stop and search operations and to avoid spreading rumors or unverified information that could cause panic in communities.
Operation HADIN KAI also appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organizations and community stakeholders to sensitize residents on the need for vigilance and timely sharing of credible information with security agencies.
“Theatre Command reassures all residents of the North East that troops are standing by, fully prepared and firmly in control,” the statement read.
The Command reiterated its determination to support the ongoing offensives against the insurgents and to ensure that Eid El Kabir celebrations take place in peace, security and dignity across the region.
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