The Federal Government has placed all security agencies across the country on red alert ahead of the Christmas and New Year celebrations, as part of measures to ensure the safety of lives and property during the festive period.
A senior security source disclosed in Abuja on Sunday that the directive was issued at the presidential level and is being implemented through the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), headed by Nuhu Ribadu, in collaboration with the Ministries of Interior and Defence, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and other security agencies.
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According to the source, security operatives have been placed under strict instructions to maintain a watertight, 24-hour security watch across the nation’s air, sea and land borders, as well as in major cities and other vulnerable locations nationwide.
Meanwhile, Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector-General of Police (IGP), has issued comprehensive operational orders to Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs) in charge of zonal commands, Commissioners of Police in the states and other strategic police formations.
The directive mandates intensified patrols, enhanced intelligence gathering and the deployment of critical assets and personnel before, during and after the yuletide celebrations.
Confirming the measures, Benjamin Hundeyin, Force Public Relations Officer, assured Nigerians of adequate security throughout the festive season.
The Police dismissed reports of alleged threats by an unnamed group to attack some cities during Christmas, describing them as empty threats.
According to him, the police, in conjunction with sister security agencies, have put in place sufficient measures to respond swiftly to any emergency in any part of the country.
The Force, however, appealed to members of the public to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information on suspicious movements or criminal activities within their communities.
Similarly, the Department of State Services (DSS) has placed all its formations nationwide on red alert.
Adeola Ajayi, Director-General of the Service, has directed commanders to closely monitor developments in their areas of responsibility and provide regular situation reports to the Service headquarters, popularly referred to as the Yellow House, in Abuja, for prompt action where necessary.
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has also heightened security at seaports, airports and land border posts to prevent illegal movements and other security breaches during the festive period.
