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Security has been heightened in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, following the emergence of a classified document reportedly attributed to the Department of State Services (DSS), warning of planned coordinated attacks within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The document, which has circulated online, allegedly identified multiple strategic targets, including the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, the Kuje Correctional Centre, and other sensitive installations across Abuja.
Security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Immigration Service and Nigerian Correctional Service, confirmed that measures have been strengthened at airports and custodial centres.
The alert was reportedly made after an internal memo by the Nigeria Customs Service, which warned of plans by Islamic State West Africa Province, Boko Haram, Ansaru and JNIM to attack the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Kuje Custodial Centre and a military detention facility in Wawa, Niger State.
The document indicated that ISWAP fighters had already infiltrated parts of the Federal Capital Territory in preparation for coordinated attacks, with a possible objective of freeing detained insurgents.
Although, authorities have not officially confirmed the authenticity of the document, security deployments have since been intensified across the city.
Joint patrols by police and military personnel have increased, alongside expanded stop-and-search operations at major entry points, transport hubs, and public spaces.
In response to the development, security agencies have strengthened surveillance and operational visibility across the capital. Checkpoints have been reinforced, and patrols intensified in what officials describe as preventive measures aimed at deterring any potential threat.
Residents report heightened security presence in major districts, with armed personnel stationed at key intersections and infrastructure corridors
Fresh Memory of 2022 Kuje Prison Break Fuels Public Concern
The latest alert has revived public anxiety over the July 5, 2022 attack on the Kuje custodial facility, one of the most significant security breaches in Nigeria’s recent history.
During the coordinated assault, heavily armed attackers stormed the facility using explosives and sustained gunfire. The rear perimeter of the prison was breached, allowing a mass escape of inmates.
Subsequent nationwide operations led to the recapture of hundreds of escapees, while others remained at large for extended periods.
Security Expert Warns Against Poor Handling of Intelligence
Reacting to the renewed alert, two retired senior military officers, General Gambo Mai Adua and Major General Bashir Galma, stressed the importance of disciplined intelligence management and coordinated communication among security agencies.
In an exclusive interview with DAILY POST, security expert, General Gambo Mai Adua Retired, urged security agencies and residents to treat the emerging threat in Abuja with utmost seriousness, stressing the need for a proactive and coordinated response.
He called on the military, police, Department of State Services (DSS), and other security outfits to intensify preparedness and remain fully alert to prevent any potential attack.
“This is a matter that must be taken seriously. The military, police, DSS, and all relevant agencies must remain vigilant and prepared to respond effectively,” he said.
The retired general highlighted the strategic role of elite units responsible for securing the nation’s capital, particularly the Brigade of Guards, urging them to step up operational readiness.
“We are aware that Abuja is protected by specialized units such as the Brigade of Guards. They must rise to the occasion and strengthen their operational posture,” he added.
He also emphasized the importance of intelligence gathering, calling on military and police intelligence units to deepen surveillance efforts by engaging directly with communities.
“This is the time for intelligence officers, both military and police, to integrate within the population to gather actionable information,” he stated.
General Mai Adua further appealed to residents to support security efforts by remaining vigilant and cooperating with authorities.
“Citizens must stay alert and work closely with security agencies. If they notice anyone suspicious, they should report or hand such individuals over to the authorities for proper investigation, as permitted by law,” he said
On his part, Major General Bashir Galma Retired, warned that while intelligence sharing is essential, improper dissemination of sensitive information could have unintended consequences.
“Inter-agency cooperation is very important, but the way intelligence is communicated to the public must be carefully managed. If not handled properly, it can create panic or even assist those planning attacks,” he said.
Galma added that premature or uncoordinated release of threat information could give perpetrators time to adjust their tactics or avoid detection.
“Once such information becomes public without control, it can weaken operational advantage. It may also reduce public confidence if not properly explained,” he noted.
He further urged security authorities to improve public communication systems, stressing that citizens must be kept informed in a structured manner.
“When warnings are issued, there must be follow-up communication. If the threat does not materialize, the public should also be informed to prevent confusion and mistrust,” he added.
Residents React with Mixed Emotions
In Abuja, reactions to the reported security alert have been divided between confidence in security agencies and growing concern over possible attacks.
Mukhtar Ahmad, a trader at Wuse market, told DAILY POST that he was aware of the alert but remained unconcerned.
“Nothing will scare us. We know the security situation in Nigeria, but this is Abuja where the President resides. This kind of alert has happened before. Lessons must have been learned, and it is unlikely for such a failure to repeat itself,” he said.
Another resident, who gave his name as Muhammad from Nyanya, said normal activities have continued but urged security agencies not to underestimate the threat.
“People are going about their daily business. However, security agencies must not take this lightly. In the past, warnings were ignored and it resulted in attacks that could have been prevented,” he said.
Meanwhile, Juliet, a student of the University of Abuja, expressed fear over the situation.
“Honestly, I am scared. I am anxious about what could happen. I just hope security agencies will act quickly to prevent any attack,” she said.
Efforts to contact the Police Public Relations Officer of the FCT Command, DSP Josephine Adeh, for comment were unsuccessful, as she neither answered our calls nor responded to the WhatsApp message sent to her.
Security agencies are yet to issue a definitive public statement on the leaked document, but surveillance operations continue to intensify across Abuja.
