Esther Oseyiomon
The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, has assured residents of the North-East of adequate security ahead of the Eid El Kabir celebrations, even as it warned of possible isolated attacks by remnant Boko Haram and ISWAP elements during the festive period.
In a security advisory issued on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, the Theatre Command said comprehensive security arrangements had already been activated across the region ahead of the Eid celebration scheduled for Wednesday, May 28.
The military disclosed that intelligence reports indicated possible attempts by terrorists to exploit crowded public areas during the festivities using suicide bombers and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
According to the Command, potential targets could include markets, prayer grounds, motor parks and other locations expected to witness heavy civilian movement during the celebration period.
Operation HADIN KAI, however, reassured residents that the threats had been anticipated and that troops had already been forward-deployed to critical and vulnerable areas across all sectors of the theatre to prevent any security breach.
The Command stated that surveillance and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets had been fully activated, while patrols and screening operations had also been intensified in collaboration with other security agencies, the Civilian Joint Task Force and community vigilance groups.
As part of precautionary measures, residents were advised to remain vigilant throughout the celebration period and avoid unnecessary exposure to crowded or unsecured locations.
The military urged citizens to conduct Eid prayers and festivities close to their homes and familiar communities where possible, while also encouraging the public to immediately report suspicious movements, unattended objects or strange activities to security personnel.
The Command further cautioned against the spread of unverified information capable of causing panic, urging residents to rely only on official information from verified government and security channels.
Operation HADIN KAI also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations and community stakeholders to support ongoing security efforts through public sensitisation and timely intelligence sharing.
The military maintained that troops remained fully prepared and operationally ready to deny terrorists any freedom of action across the North-East during the festivities.
The Command subsequently extended Eid El Kabir greetings to Muslim faithful across the region, expressing confidence that the celebrations would be conducted peacefully under enhanced security coverage.