Nigeria: UN issues security warning Oct. 25 on militant plans to kidnap humanitarian aid workers in Banki, Borno State

Event

The United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) issued a security alert on Oct. 25 warning that it had received information concerning plans by militant groups Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Boko Haram to kidnap humanitarian aid workers in Banki in Borno State's Bama Local Government Area (LGA). The UNDSS advisory provided no indication of particular timing for such planned abductions, nor did it clarify the nature or source of any specific intelligence information the organization may have received. The UNDSS is reminding aid workers in the affected area to take appropriate steps to reduce their risk of kidnapping. The alert follows a series of attacks in the region by militant jihadist groups.

Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security presence in the region and may launch security operations to counter militant activity in the coming days. Localized transport disruptions are likely along primary routes due to security checkpoints. Armed clashes between militants and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Exercise a high degree of vigilance due to the threat of kidnapping. Avoid non-essential travel if possible. Do not discuss plans and routes publicly. If operating in the area in the long term, vary routes and times of travel; use secure transport. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations. Strictly adhere to established security protocols for ground transport in the region and remain in secured compounds during nighttime hours.