By Ghazali Ibrahim
Nigerian security agencies have heightened surveillance across key facilities in the Federal Capital Territory following intelligence reports of a planned large-scale terrorist attack targeting critical infrastructure.
An internal memo from the Nigeria Customs Service revealed that militants are plotting coordinated attacks on the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, a major correctional facility in Abuja, and a military detention centre in neighbouring Niger State.
According to the intelligence, the attackers, believed to be members of extremist groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP aim to breach the prison facilities and free detained fighters while causing significant damage.
Security has since been reinforced around the identified locations, with officials warning that the plot bears similarities to previous attacks, including the 2022 Abuja prison break.
Amid the heightened threat, the United States Embassy in Nigeria has authorised the evacuation of non-essential staff, citing risks linked to terrorism and violent crime.
However, Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, downplayed concerns, stating that the evacuation was a precautionary measure and not indicative of a collapse in national security.
Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant as efforts continue to neutralise the threat and prevent any potential attack.
