Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigeria Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has directed a nationwide security operation aimed at protecting lives and property during the upcoming Eid al-Fitr celebrations, one of the most important religious holidays for Muslims marking the end of Ramadan.
Okay News reports that the directive was issued as millions of Muslims across Nigeria prepare to gather at prayer grounds and public venues to celebrate the festival. In a statement released on Friday by the spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force, Anthony Placid, the police chief instructed all Commissioners of Police and Tactical Commanders across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, to implement extensive and coordinated security arrangements.
The Nigeria Police Force, which is the country’s primary law enforcement agency responsible for internal security, will deploy a combination of tactical units, intelligence officers, and conventional police personnel. These officers are to be stationed at Eid prayer grounds, major roads, transport hubs, and other high-traffic public areas where large gatherings are expected.
The statement explained that “Operational measures include strategic deployment of tactical teams and intelligence operatives, deployment of the Special Intervention Squad and conventional police personnel to Eid prayer grounds and critical infrastructure, and increased presence at highways, motor parks, recreational centres, and other public spaces to ensure peaceful and hitch-free celebrations.”
The Special Intervention Squad is a specialised unit within the Nigeria Police Force trained to respond rapidly to high-risk security threats, including terrorism and violent crime. Its deployment signals heightened readiness by authorities during the festive period.
In addition to visible policing, the Inspector-General also ordered intensified surveillance operations, coordinated patrols, and intelligence-led stop-and-search activities. These measures are designed to deter criminal activity and ensure a swift response to any emerging threats during the celebrations.
Eid al-Fitr typically draws large crowds across Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, making security planning essential. Public spaces such as recreation centres, highways, and markets often experience increased activity, raising the need for proactive policing.
Disu also used the opportunity to congratulate Muslim faithful on completing the Ramadan fast and urged citizens to cooperate with law enforcement agencies. He advised the public to remain alert and report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station or through official emergency contact lines.
The security operation is expected to remain in place throughout the festive period, with authorities monitoring developments closely to ensure a peaceful celebration nationwide.
