Nigeria: Officials issue security warning ahead of Eid-el-Adha celebrations scheduled June 28-29

Event

The Department of State Services (SSS) has called for vigilance over concerns of attacks against recreational centers, places of worship, and other public spaces ahead of the Eid-al-Adha (also called Eid-al-Kabir) celebrations planned June 28-29. Celebrations and their duration may vary depending on the state and start as early as June 26 and end on July 3. Officials cited recent security operations in Nassawara and Kogi states and the discovery of weapons and explosives. Armed clashes left one assailant dead and one arrested during the operations.

Increased security measures, including checkpoints, patrols, and random vehicle searches, are likely nationwide, particularly in northern urban centers such as Abuja or Kano; northern Nigeria is predominantly Muslim. Localized transport disruptions could occur in areas with a heavy security presence. Attacks cannot be ruled out.

Context

The exact nature of the threat is unclear. In the most recent terrorist incidents, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) claimed an attack at a checkpoint in the Zuma Rock area bordering Niger State on July 28, 2022, and an attack against the Kuje prison in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on July 5, 2022. There have been concerns over a potential attack in Abuja in recent months, including terror warnings issued by diplomatic missions in October 2022, but the threat has not materialized.

Advice

Exercise heightened vigilance during the celebrations and limit nonessential movement. Consider avoiding sites that may be targeted, such as religious places, public gatherings, and government buildings. Heed the instructions of local authorities; remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.