Security agencies have heightened surveillance and reinforced key facilities in Abuja and neighbouring Niger State following intelligence of a suspected insurgent plot targeting critical infrastructure.
The Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Immigration Service, and Nigerian Correctional Service said they have strengthened security around airports and custodial centres in response to the threat.
According to a report by The Washington Post, an internal memo from the Nigeria Customs Service warned of plans by terrorist groups to attack the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and the Kuje Custodial Centre in the Federal Capital Territory, as well as a correctional facility in Niger State.
The memo indicated that the planned attacks involve fighters linked to Islamic State West Africa Province, Boko Haram, Ansaru, and Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimeen.
Dated April 13, 2026, and signed by Timi Bomodi, the memo also warned that insurgents may target a military detention facility in Wawa, Niger State, with the aim of freeing detained fighters.
It added that some militants may have already infiltrated the FCT, drawing parallels with similar attacks on aviation facilities in Niamey and Tahoua in neighbouring Niger Republic.
Authorities referenced past incidents, including the July 2022 attack on the Kuje correctional centre that led to the escape of dozens of inmates, and a failed October 2022 assault on the Wawa Cantonment in Borgu LGA of Niger State.
In response, the Customs Service has directed increased surveillance, stricter screening of visitors, and deployment of specialised intelligence units to vulnerable locations.
The spokesperson for the Airport Police Command, Adeola Muhammed, said security agencies remain fully alert and prepared.
“The command is always aware of potential security threats, and we are prepared to scale up measures as the situation demands. Whether you are entering or exiting the airport, you will be thoroughly screened,” he said.
Muhammed added that strong collaboration among agencies, especially in intelligence sharing, has enhanced their ability to respond to threats.
Similarly, the spokesperson for the Immigration Service, Akinsola Akinlabi, confirmed that security has been heightened across all its facilities in the FCT.
“We are sure the police are handling this threat already, and a section of the army too,” he said, noting that correctional authorities are also taking precautionary steps.
The Correctional Service spokesperson, Jane Osuji, assured Nigerians that facilities nationwide, particularly in Abuja, have been placed on high alert.
“We want to assure Nigerians that our facilities in Abuja and other states are on high alert. We have taken proactive steps. We also want to assure Nigerians not to panic; they should go about their lawful activities without fear or apprehension,” she said.
