Muhammed Abubakar, Reporting
MAIDUGURI — The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has assured residents of a peaceful and secure Eid El Kabir celebration, even as it warned of possible isolated attacks by remnant terrorist elements.
In a security advisory issued on Monday, the Command confirmed that comprehensive security arrangements have been finalised ahead of the Eid El Kabir 1447AH celebrations scheduled for Wednesday, 28 May 2026.
Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for the Task Force, extended warm felicitations to all Muslim faithful and stated that troops had been forward-deployed to critical locations across the region.
“Comprehensive security arrangements have been put in place well ahead of the celebrations to ensure a safe and secure environment for all,” he said.
However, the Command acknowledged that credible intelligence indicated a potential threat
“Credible intelligence available to the Command indicates the possibility of isolated attempts by remnant Boko Haram Terrorist (BHT) and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) elements to exploit the festive period to carry out attacks against civilian targets using suicide bombers and IEDs, particularly in areas of high population concentration,” Lieutenant Colonel Uba said.
He stressed that these threats had been thoroughly anticipated. Troops have been forward-deployed, surveillance assets fully activated, patrols intensified, and security forces are operating in close coordination with sister agencies, the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), and community vigilance groups.
The Theatre Command also issued a series of security recommendations for members of the public during the celebrations.
Residents were advised to: “Conduct Eid prayers and festivities as close to your homes and familiar localities as possible, and avoid large open gatherings where practicable.” They were also urged to exercise heightened vigilance in crowded public spaces such as markets, motor parks, banking halls, and prayer grounds.
The advisory further instructed the public to: “Report any suspicious persons, unattended objects, or unusual movements to the nearest military checkpoint, police station, or civil-military liaison point immediately,” and to cooperate fully with security personnel during patrols and screening operations.
The Command also appealed to community leaders. “The Theatre Command calls on traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations and community stakeholders to actively engage their communities and encourage the timely reporting of credible security information ahead of and during the celebration period,” Lieutenant Colonel Uba said.
Operation Hadin Kai reassured all residents of the North East that troops remain on standby, fully prepared, and firmly in control. “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,” he added.
