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The Civic Centre for National Security has called on the Nigerian Armed Forces to ensure heightened vigilance and robust deployment of security across the country ahead of the Easter celebrations, to guarantee a peaceful and secure celebration.
The centre charged the military to also replicate the gains made against terrorists and bandits in the North to other states of the federation, stressing that consistent presence and sustained engagement are critical to long-term success.
It noted that, despite persistent insecurity, the Nigerian Armed Forces deserve recognition for maintaining pressure on criminal elements, given the complex and evolving nature of security challenges in Nigeria.
The group observed that sustained offensives targeting criminal enclaves, alongside increased surveillance and rapid deployment capabilities, have contributed to weakening the operational capacity of armed groups.
It, however, noted that the current onslaught on terrorists, bandits, and other criminal elements must be consolidated and sustained to prevent relapse into widespread anarchy.
In a statement issued Thursday evening and signed by its Executive Director, Dr. Johnson Audu, the centre said, “We urge the military to sustain and intensify its efforts to ensure that Nigerians across all regions can observe the forthcoming Easter season in peace and safety.
“The goal must be to replicate and expand current security improvements nationwide.”
It called on residents of the North Central region and Nigerians at large to remain vigilant, share credible information with security agencies, and resist any form of collaboration with criminal groups.
The call follows renewed attacks by criminals on communities ahead of the Easter celebration.
The statement said, “Security is a shared responsibility. Citizens must actively support the Armed Forces through vigilance, cooperation, and a collective rejection of all forms of criminality. The fight against insecurity requires a united national effort,” Dr. Audu said.
It further encouraged community leaders, civil society groups, and local institutions to strengthen grassroots engagement and promote a culture of peace and mutual responsibility.
It stressed that trust between citizens and the military remains a critical factor in sustaining recent gains and preventing the resurgence of violence.
Intensify nationwide security, sustain anti-terror gains – Centre
