• As DHQ, Police assure of nationwide safety

Ahead of the yuletide celebrations, the Federal Government has placed all the nation’s security forces on red alert for safe and peaceful celebration nationwide.

An informed security source told the Nigerian Tribune in Abuja on Sunday that the presidential order is being carried out through the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; the ministries of Interior and Defence; Department of State Services (DSS); and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

According to the sources, the security forces are under strict directive to ensure a watertight security watch at the nation’s air, sea, and land borders on 24-hour basis nationwide.

It was gathered that the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, had issued operational orders to police strategic Commanders, assistant inspectors general of police (AIGs) in the Zonal Commands, State Commissioners of police, and other police formations nationwide as the leading head of internal security to step up patrols, intelligence gathering, and deployment of critical assets and personnel in their areas of jurisdiction before, during and after the celebrations.

Speaking, the Force Public Relations Officer FPRO CSP Benjamin who assured adequate security before, during and after the yuletide celebrations dismissed the alleged threats by a faceless group to attack some cities in the country during the Christmas period, describing it as an empty threats, as the Police have put in place adequate security measures to handle any emergency in any part of the country in conjunction with other sister security agencies.

He, however, appealed to the members of the public to assist with useful information about any form of criminal activities in the environment for security agencies to tackle such challenges on time.

The Source added that similar scenario is playing out at the Department of State Services DSS as its Director General has also placed all the formations nationwide on a red alert during the period to ensure a hitch-free celebration.

The source added that the Commands are expected to always update the Yellow House Headquarters, Abuja of the Services about the happenings in their areas of jurisdiction for further action.

It was also gathered that both the Nigerian Custom Service and the Nigerian Immigration Service NIS have also stepped up security at Sea, Air Ports and around the land borders.

On its part, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) assured the public that robust and proactive measures aimed at preventing any attacks during the Christmas festivities have been emplaced.

According to the Director Defence Media Operations DDMO Major Gen M E Onoja, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), working closely with other security agencies, have intensified operations across identified vulnerable areas.

Gen Onoja disclosed that “additional troops have been deployed to strategic locations and routes while special forces units and air support elements have been placed on high alert to ensure rapid response capability.

“Furthermore, surveillance efforts—including aerial monitoring and intelligence gathering have been heightened to track the movement and communication patterns of suspected criminal groups. Unit Commanders in all areas have been directed to strengthen patrols, establish fortified checkpoints, and maintain close collaboration with community leaders, local vigilante groups, and state security formations.

“As we approach this festive period, the Armed Forces of Nigeria reaffirm their unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and property of all Nigerians. The security and stability of our nation remain our top priority, and every necessary measure is being taken to ensure that citizens celebrate Christmas in peace, unity, and joy,” he stated.

He further added, “However, citizens’ cooperation remains a critical component of national security, and we assure you that all reports will be treated with urgency and confidentiality.

“We urge citizens to remain calm but vigilant, and to promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest security formation.

“Public cooperation remains vital in ensuring the success of ongoing operations; the Chief of Defence Staff, General OO Oluyede, wishes all citizens a Merry Christmas and a happy New year in advance. You are requested to disseminate this information to the public.

Our Source further explained that the Civil Defence Corps has also mobilised its personnel nationwide for a peaceful celebration.

"The Corps is now in charge of providing security escorts for the VIPs as directed by the President and they are also in charge of the nation’s critical assets; they now have additional responsibilities, they are already on ground across the country,” the source added.

The source further hinted that the NSA is expected to meet with the security Chiefs and the Minister of Defence any time from now for further briefing on effective operations. (Nigeria Tribune)