The Nigerian military has broken its silence and confirmed a major security escalation ahead of the Christmas celebrations. This comes in response to alarming intelligence reports indicating that terrorist groups are planning coordinated attacks, potentially targeting Christian communities on Christmas Day.
Military Deploys Robust Proactive Measures
In an official statement released on December 21, 2025, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) assured the nation that the Armed Forces of Nigeria have activated comprehensive security protocols. The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, disclosed that additional troops have been deployed to strategic and vulnerable locations across the country.
Special forces units and air support elements have been placed on high alert to ensure a rapid response capability to any emerging threat. The military's strategy is focused on preempting any attempts to disrupt the festive season and ensuring the safety of all citizens.
Intensified Surveillance and Community Collaboration
General Onoja elaborated that surveillance efforts have been significantly ramped up. This includes enhanced aerial monitoring and intelligence-gathering operations designed to track the movements and communications of suspected criminal and terrorist cells.
Furthermore, unit commanders nationwide have received direct orders to strengthen ground patrols and establish fortified checkpoints. A key component of the strategy is close collaboration with community leaders, local vigilante groups, and state security formations. This layered approach aims to create a tight security net.
Citizen Vigilance and the Source of the Threat
The DHQ emphasized that citizen cooperation is a critical pillar of national security. Major General Onoja urged Nigerians to remain calm but extremely vigilant, advising them to promptly report any suspicious activities to the nearest security agency. All such reports, he assured, would be treated with urgency and confidentiality.
The military's proactive stance follows a serious warning issued earlier in December by the humanitarian organization Equipping The Persecuted. The group's founder, Judd Saul, raised the alarm during a roundtable meeting in Washington DC, chaired by former US congressman Frank Wolf. The meeting, attended by several US lawmakers and officials, highlighted an alleged plot for deadly attacks on communities in northern Nigeria during Christmas Day.
While conveying festive greetings from the Chief of Defence Staff, General O.O. Oluyede, the military high command encouraged the widespread sharing of its security advisory to ensure maximum public awareness and preparedness for a safe Christmas celebration.
