The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has warned Nigerians to heighten vigilance against possible isolated attacks by terrorists and other criminal groups following sustained military operations that have inflicted significant setbacks on their networks.
The warning was contained in the latest advisory circulated to security agencies as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen public awareness and preventive security measures.
The ONSA said recent military and intelligence operations had recorded notable successes against Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and splinter groups, and other criminal networks, including the elimination of several commanders.
Among those killed recently was ISWAP commander Abubakar Mainok, also known as Abu Bilal Al-Minuki.
According to the advisory, the operations also disrupted terrorist camps, hideouts and other criminal strongholds across parts of the country.
The ONSA said the latest alert was issued against the backdrop of sustained operations by Nigerian security agencies conducted in collaboration with local and international partners.
“This advisory is issued against the backdrop of sustained operations by Nigerian security agencies across the North-East, North-West, and North-Central regions, which have recorded notable successes against ISWAP and other criminal groups,” the ONSA said.
The agency, however, cautioned that the setbacks suffered by the terrorist and criminal groups could push them to resort to isolated attacks designed to create fear, attract public attention or demonstrate that they still possess the capacity to operate.
It consequently urged Nigerians to remain particularly attentive to their surroundings and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies.
“Citizens are encouraged to remain alert to unusual or suspicious persons, objects, vehicles, and movements within their environment,” the advisory stated.
ONSA also called on state and local government authorities to strengthen community vigilance, support preventive security measures and ensure the timely sharing of relevant information with security agencies.
While urging citizens to remain calm, ONSA warned against the circulation of unverified information capable of triggering unnecessary panic or undermining ongoing security operations.
The agency reaffirmed that the protection of lives and property remained a priority of the Federal Government, stressing the need for continued cooperation between citizens and security agencies.
It said the government would continue to work with the international community through sustained intelligence sharing, security cooperation and coordinated preventive measures to respond to evolving threats and strengthen collective security.