The Nigeria Police Force has issued a nationwide security alert following intelligence indicating plans by terrorist groups to carry out coordinated attacks on places of worship, schools, NYSC orientation camps and other vulnerable locations.
The warning was contained in a wireless message issued by the Force Department of Operations, Abuja, and circulated to police commands and formations across the country.
The communication, referenced CB: 0900/FDPS/DOPS/FHQ/ABJ/VOL38/68, was marked “Security General” and tagged “Treat as Very Important.”
According to the police, the intelligence points to increased mobilisation by terrorist elements across parts of the country, particularly the North-East, North-West, North-Central and some areas of the South-West.
The Force expressed particular concern over the reported movement of armed elements from Katsina through Kaduna towards Plateau State.
It also disclosed that suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) operatives and their local collaborators were conducting surveillance and reconnaissance of potential targets.
Schools were identified as a major area of concern ahead of the resumption of the 2026/2027 academic session, with the police warning that terrorists could exploit the return of students and staff to cause mass casualties.
The intelligence further raised concerns about possible attacks ahead of the 2027 general elections, potentially aimed at creating fear and destabilising communities.
The Department of Operations assessed the development as a possible transition from terrorist “intent to preparatory activity”, prompting the directive for immediate preventive measures.
Police commands were subsequently ordered to intensify intelligence-led surveillance, patrols, stop-and-search operations and access control around schools, worship centres, NYSC camps and other vulnerable facilities.
Commanders were also directed to strengthen rapid-response arrangements and tighten security around state borders, entry and exit routes and other critical approaches.
The police further instructed formations to work closely with other security and intelligence agencies, school authorities, religious leaders and the National Youth Service Corps to improve information sharing and establish effective early-warning mechanisms.
Commanders were ordered to identify and immediately address security gaps, while personnel were advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious persons, vehicles, movements or objects through established channels.
The Force directed that all credible threats or incidents be reported immediately to the Inspector-General of Police and the Department of Operations.
All affected commands and formations were ordered to ensure strict compliance with the directive and provide feedback on measures taken to strengthen security.
