Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has initiated a major security reinforcement operation across Abuja, targeting rising criminal activities in the nation's capital. The comprehensive security plan includes intensified surveillance at border corridors linking the FCT with neighboring states.
Operation Sweep Squad Deployment
The Operation Sweep Squad - a joint task force comprising personnel from the military, police, Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies - has commenced coordinated deployment to strategic flashpoints throughout Abuja. This multi-agency approach aims to create a unified front against criminal elements.
During the formal briefing of the security team, FCT Commissioner of Police CP Miller Dantawaye emphasized the importance of inter-agency cooperation in decisively stamping out crime within the territory. He revealed that Minister Wike has provided substantial logistical support to ensure the operation's success, particularly as year-end festivities approach.
Logistical Support and High-Level Endorsement
According to CP Dantawaye, service chiefs and the Inspector-General of Police have fully endorsed the multi-layered operation designed to tackle kidnapping, banditry and related threats in vulnerable communities across the FCT. The minister's commitment includes immediate release of funds for vehicle fueling, servicing and personnel allowances.
"Wike has given complete support, especially in terms of logistics," Dantawaye confirmed. "By the time we leave here today, funds for fuelling, vehicle servicing and allowances for personnel will have been released into an accessible account."
Addressing Street Begging and False School Closure Reports
The security crackdown also addresses the rising influx of street beggars into the city center. The CP revealed that security agencies are collaborating with relevant FCTA departments to profile individuals posing as beggars, noting that many exploit this guise to perpetrate criminal activities.
"We know that some who claim to be beggars are not beggars. Many come with criminal intent," he stated. "We will profile them and identify those who are criminally minded, even if they present themselves as beggars."
Meanwhile, the FCTA has debunked reports circulating about mandatory closure of all government schools by November 28, 2025. Senior Special Assistant to the FCT Minister on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, clarified that no such decision was taken at any level of the administration.
In response to the unauthorized circular about early school closure, Minister Wike has directed the immediate suspension of the Mandate Secretary for Education, Dr Danlami Hayyo. Additionally, FCT Acting Head of Service Mrs Nancy Sabanti Nathan has been mandated to discipline the Director of School Services, Mrs Aishatu Sani Alhassan, in accordance with civil service rules.
The FCTA has assured residents, particularly students, of adequate security measures and emphasized that the approved academic calendar remains unchanged. The administration urged parents, students and school authorities to dismiss the false rumors about early school closure.
