From Salihu Pirkusu, Maiduguri
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, disclosing 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 issued on Monday by the Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the theatre command said credible intelligence available to the military indicated that terrorists may attempt to target civilians through suicide bombings and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), especially in crowded public locations.
According to the statement, the planned attacks are expected to focus on areas with high population concentration, including markets, motor parks, banking halls, and prayer grounds during the Eid festivities scheduled for Wednesday, May 28, 2026.
The command disclosed that troops had already been forward-deployed to critical and vulnerable locations across all sectors within the theatre of operations, while surveillance and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets had been fully activated to detect and neutralise threats.
It added that aggressive patrols and coordinated security operations involving sister agencies, members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), and local vigilance groups had also been intensified to deny terrorists freedom of action during the celebrations.
While extending Eid greetings to Muslim faithful, the military urged residents to avoid unnecessary exposure and adhere strictly to security advisories issued by authorities.
Residents were specifically advised to hold Eid prayers and celebrations close to their homes and familiar environments, while avoiding large open gatherings where practicable.
The military also called on members of the public to remain alert in crowded areas and immediately report suspicious persons, unattended objects, or unusual movements to security agencies.
Citizens were further urged to cooperate with security personnel during stop-and-search operations and avoid spreading rumours or unverified information capable of causing panic within communities.
Operation HADIN KAI also appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations, and community stakeholders to sensitise residents on the need for vigilance and the timely sharing of credible intelligence with security agencies.
“Theatre Command reassures all residents of the North East that troops are on standby, fully prepared, and firmly in control,” the statement said.
The Command reiterated its determination to sustain ongoing offensives against insurgents and ensure that the Eid El Kabir celebrations are conducted in peace, safety, and dignity across the region.
