Maha Christopher
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 scheduled for Wednesday, May 28, 2026.
According to The Punch, the military said comprehensive security measures had already been activated across the theatre to ensure peaceful celebrations despite threats posed by remnants of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Media Information Officer of OPHK, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the command extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful and wished residents a peaceful and joyful celebration.
The statement revealed that credible intelligence indicated that insurgents might attempt to exploit the festive period to launch isolated attacks on civilian targets using suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices, especially in crowded areas.
“Credible intelligence available to the command indicates the possibility of isolated attempts by remnant Boko Haram Terrorist and Islamic State West Africa Province 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,” the statement read.
The military, however, assured residents that the threats had been anticipated and necessary countermeasures already put in place.
It added that troops had been deployed to vulnerable locations across all sectors, while surveillance and intelligence operations had been intensified.
The command also disclosed that security forces were working closely with sister agencies, the Civilian Joint Task Force, and local vigilance groups to prevent any security breach during the celebrations.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant, avoid overcrowded areas where possible, and report suspicious movements or objects to security agencies.
The military also appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations, and community stakeholders to support security efforts by sharing credible information promptly.
“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,” the statement added.
