The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has issued a fresh security advisory to residents across the region, warning of an increased risk of suicide bombing attacks by Boko Haram and ISWAP elements in the closing days of Ramadan.
The warning follows recent incidents in Maiduguri on Monday evening around the Monday Market, Post Office, and the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), which resulted in casualties and renewed concerns over public safety.
According to OPHK, the attacks highlight the continued strategy of terrorist groups to target crowded civilian locations in a bid to create panic and gain propaganda advantage. The military noted that such groups often intensify operations during significant religious periods, particularly around the 27th and 29th days of Ramadan, when there is increased movement in mosques, markets, and other public spaces.
Residents have therefore been strongly advised to remain vigilant and security-conscious, especially in densely populated areas such as prayer grounds, markets, motor parks, hospitals, and major road junctions.
Worshippers attending Taraweeh and Tahajjud prayers have also been urged to exercise caution and cooperate with security personnel carrying out screening and access control measures.
The advisory further called on members of the public to watch out for suspicious individuals or unusual behaviour, particularly persons loitering around crowded places or attempting to evade security checks. Citizens were also encouraged to promptly report unattended bags, parcels, or strange objects to security authorities.
In addition, residents are advised to avoid overcrowded areas where possible, maintain situational awareness at all times, and fully cooperate with security agencies during stop-and-search operations and other safety procedures.
Parents and guardians have been urged to closely monitor the movement of their children, especially during evening hours and night prayers.
Community leaders, religious authorities, market associations, and transport unions were also called upon to support security efforts by sensitising their members and reporting suspicious activities without delay.
The military assured that security agencies have heightened operational readiness, increased surveillance, and intensified patrols across critical locations in the region to prevent further attacks.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property, OPHK urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, stressing that public cooperation remains crucial in counter-terrorism efforts.
“Timely information from citizens has repeatedly helped prevent attacks and apprehend terrorist collaborators,” the statement noted.
Residents were reminded of the importance of reporting any suspicious activity through appropriate security channels.