Public Security Advisory Across the North-East Region

March 18, 2026, Maiduguri, Borno State

The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, has issued a strong public security advisory, warning residents across the North-East region to remain vigilant following heightened threats of suicide bomb attacks by Boko Haram and ISWAP elements during the final days of Ramadan.

In a statement released by the Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Task Force noted that recent incidents in Maiduguri—particularly around Monday Market, the Post Office, and the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital—underscore the continued intent of terrorist groups to target densely populated civilian areas in order to spread fear and gain propaganda advantage.

The statement highlighted that historical trends show an escalation of terrorist activities during significant religious periods, especially around the 27th and 29th days of Ramadan, when places of worship, markets, motor parks, and other public spaces experience increased human traffic.

To prevent further attacks, residents across the North-East have been strongly advised to remain security conscious, alert, and observant, particularly in crowded locations such as mosques, prayer grounds, markets, shopping centres, hospitals, and major road junctions. Worshippers attending night prayers, including Taraweeh and Tahajjud, are urged to exercise caution and cooperate fully with security personnel conducting screening and access control measures.

The advisory also outlined key precautionary steps for the public, including staying alert to suspicious movements or behaviour, especially individuals loitering around crowded areas or attempting to evade security checks. Citizens are encouraged to promptly report unattended bags, parcels, or suspicious objects to the nearest authorities. They are also advised to avoid overcrowded spaces where possible and maintain situational awareness when attending public gatherings.

In addition, the Task Force urged full cooperation with security agencies during stop-and-search operations and other safety procedures. Parents and guardians have been advised to closely monitor the movement of their children, particularly during evening hours and night prayers.

Community leaders, religious authorities, market associations, and transport unions were also called upon to support ongoing security efforts by sensitising their members and reporting any suspicious activities without delay.

The military further assured that security agencies across the region have heightened operational readiness, with increased surveillance, patrols, and protective measures around critical locations and population centres. These efforts, according to the statement, are aimed at preventing further attacks and ensuring that citizens can observe the remaining days of Ramadan and the forthcoming Eid celebrations in peace and safety.

The statement concluded by stressing that public cooperation remains vital in counter-terrorism efforts, noting that timely information from vigilant citizens has played a crucial role in foiling attacks and apprehending terrorist collaborators. Residents were urged to remain calm but alert and to report any suspicious activity through appropriate security channels.