National Security Adviser warns about potential threats, urges public vigilance

The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has asked for "continued vigilance and appropriate precautionary measures in relation to potential security concerns in certain locations."

This information came from a security advisory issued by the ONSA and shared with security agencies.

A copy of the document, which PREMIUM TIMES reviewed, shows that the alert is based on ongoing military actions, intelligence gathering, and threat monitoring by security agencies working with local and international partners across Nigeria.

The advisory, dated 27th August, mentioned the killing of Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters, including their leader, Abubakar Mainok, as part of the successes achieved recently.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that Mr Mainok (also known as Abu Bilal al-Minuki) and his fighters were killed during a joint operation involving Nigeria and United States forces.

The jihadists were killed in March when the combined troops attacked their base on an island in Borno State, in North-east Nigeria.

"This advisory is issued against the backdrop of sustained operations by Nigerian security agencies across the North-East, North-West, and North-Central regions, which have recorded notable successes against the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and other criminal groups," the ONSA stated.

"These operations have led to the neutralisation of several terrorist and bandit commanders, including Abubakar Al-Mainok alias Abu Bilal Al-Minuki, as well as the disruption of camps, hideouts, and other criminal strongholds in various areas," it added.

Why the security advisory?

The ONSA explained that terror groups "may seek to carry out isolated acts aimed at creating fear or drawing attention to themselves."

Even with the heavy losses suffered by these groups, this newspaper reports that they have continued to launch what experts call guerrilla attacks on military bases, civilian areas, and major roads in the north. This is in addition to their attempts to expand their influence.

The ONSA, therefore, advised the public to "maintain vigilance at all times and remain security-conscious in their immediate environment."

It also urged state and local government authorities to enhance community vigilance, support preventive actions, and ensure timely sharing of information with security agencies.

"Citizens are encouraged to remain alert to unusual or suspicious persons, objects, vehicles, and movements within their environment," ONSA said in the security alert, stressing that these signs should be reported through the right channels.

The advisory also urged people to stay calm and warned against spreading unverified information.

The ONSA noted that the government prioritises protecting life and property and asked the public to work with security agencies.

It assured the international community that it will continue ensuring a safe and stable environment for citizens, foreign nationals, diplomatic missions, investors, and development partners.

"The government will also continue to work closely with the international community through sustained intelligence sharing, security cooperation, and coordinated preventive measures to address evolving threats and strengthen collective security," it concluded.