Military raises alarm over possible suicide attacks in North-East, urges vigilance in crowded areas as Ramadan draws to close.
The Nigerian military has raised fresh concerns over an increased threat of suicide bombings by Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists in the North-East, urging residents to remain vigilant as the Ramadan season draws to a close.
In a security advisory issued by the Headquarters, Joint Task Force North East (Operation Hadin Kai), the military warned that recent developments—particularly the multiple attacks recorded in Maiduguri—point to heightened risks in the coming days.
The advisory, signed by the Media Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, noted that the recent incidents occurred around Monday Market, the Post Office, and the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), resulting in casualties.
According to the military, the attacks highlight the persistent intent of terrorist groups to target densely populated civilian areas in order to instil fear and gain propaganda advantage.
Uba explained that intelligence reports and historical patterns show that insurgents often intensify attacks during significant religious periods.
He identified the 27th and 29th days of Ramadan as particularly vulnerable, due to increased movement of people in mosques, markets, motor parks, and other public gathering places.
Against this backdrop, residents across the North-East were urged to maintain a high level of vigilance, especially in crowded environments such as places of worship, markets, hospitals, shopping centres, and major road junctions.
Worshippers attending night prayers—including Taraweeh and Tahajjud—were specifically advised to exercise caution and cooperate fully with security personnel conducting screening and access control measures.
The military also outlined precautionary measures for the public, including staying alert to suspicious movements, reporting unattended items, avoiding overcrowded spaces where possible, and complying with stop-and-search operations.
Parents and guardians were advised to closely monitor their children’s movements, particularly during evening hours, while community leaders, religious authorities, and transport unions were urged to support security efforts through awareness and timely reporting.
Meanwhile, security agencies have increased surveillance, patrols, and protective measures across critical infrastructure and population centres in the region.
The military said these steps are aimed at preventing further attacks and ensuring that residents can safely observe the remaining days of Ramadan and the upcoming Eid celebrations.
Uba emphasised that public cooperation remains crucial in counter-terrorism efforts, noting that actionable intelligence from citizens has previously helped thwart attacks and apprehend suspects.
“Members of the public are urged to remain calm but vigilant and to promptly report any suspicious activity,” he said.
“If you see something, say something. Security is everyone’s responsibility.”