By Odita Sunday
The Headquarters, Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has assured residents of the North-East region of adequate security arrangements ahead of the Eid El Kabir 1447AH celebrations scheduled for Wednesday, May 28, 2026.
The Theatre Command, in a statement issued on Monday by the Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, extended felicitations to Muslim faithful and pledged the commitment of security forces to ensuring peaceful celebrations across the region.
According to the statement, comprehensive security measures have already been activated across the Theatre to safeguard lives and property during the festive period.
The Command disclosed that credible intelligence indicated the possibility of isolated attacks by remnants of Boko Haram terrorists and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters targeting civilian locations using suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices.
The statement noted that the threats were particularly anticipated in densely populated areas and public gathering points.
However, OPHK assured residents that the situation remained under control, stressing that troops had already been forward-deployed to vulnerable locations across all sectors of the Theatre.
It further stated that surveillance and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance assets had been fully activated, while patrols had been intensified in collaboration with sister security agencies, the Civilian Joint Task Force and community vigilance groups.
The Theatre Command advised members of the public to remain vigilant throughout the celebration period and to conduct Eid prayers and festivities close to their homes and familiar localities where possible.
Residents were also urged to be cautious in crowded places such as markets, motor parks, banking halls and prayer grounds.
The military further advised the public to promptly report suspicious movements, unattended objects or unusual activities to the nearest security formation.
The statement also called for cooperation with security personnel during screening and patrol operations, while cautioning against unnecessary movements at night or in areas with limited security presence.
Operation HADIN KAI equally warned against the spread of unverified information capable of causing panic, urging residents to rely only on official security and government communication channels.
The Command appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations and community stakeholders to support ongoing security efforts by encouraging residents to provide credible information to security agencies.
“Theatre Command reassures all residents of the North East that troops are on standby, fully prepared, and firmly in control,” the statement added.
It reiterated the determination of troops to deny terrorists freedom of action and ensure peaceful Eid celebrations across the region.
