Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters has directed troops across the country to heighten vigilance ahead of the Easter celebrations, assuring citizens of reinforced security presence nationwide.
The military high command also reaffirmed that ongoing collaboration with the United States is strengthening Nigeria’s counter-terrorism operations, with tangible results expected in the coming weeks and months.
Speaking during the end-of-month media briefing in Abuja, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Michael Onoja, disclosed that troops have already been placed on high alert to prevent any security breaches during the festive period.
He explained that proactive deployment of personnel during major celebrations is a routine security measure and has been consistently implemented during previous holidays.
“We know that festive seasons usually have heightened security activities. The military command gives instructions to ensure all personnel are on alert. This time will not be different,” Onoja said.
He stressed that security agencies remain fully mobilised, warning that criminal elements often attempt to exploit festive periods to carry out attacks.
“I can assure you that we will always be on alert, particularly at this period of festivities, because we know that the threats expect us to relax. But we are not going to relax. Everything will be okay for this Easter,” he added.
On international cooperation, the defence spokesman noted that Nigeria’s partnership with U.S. forces continues to deliver strategic advantages, particularly in intelligence sharing and capacity building, even if the outcomes are not immediately visible to the public.
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“You are aware that they are bringing intelligence and training support to us, which we need. They are giving that to us on very favourable terms. There are lots of things I cannot say because of confidentiality,” he stated.
According to him, the intelligence assistance includes actionable information on the location of hostile elements, which Nigerian troops are already deploying in ongoing military operations.
“All we can say is that these things take time. There is a gestation period when we are conducting military operations. You will not see it immediately, but in the next few months or weeks, you will feel the difference in the impact of the assistance that the U.S. is providing,” Onoja said.
The latest update follows an earlier confirmation by the Defence Headquarters on February 16, 2026, that about 100 U.S. military personnel and equipment had arrived at Bauchi Airfield to support Nigeria’s counter-terrorism campaign in non-combat capacities, including training and technical advisory roles.
Despite the collaboration, insecurity has continued to challenge several parts of the country, fueling public debate over the pace and effectiveness of ongoing joint security efforts.