The Nigeria Police Force has launched a comprehensive, nationwide security operation ahead of the Eid al-Fitr celebrations, with the Inspector-General of Police ordering the deployment of tactical units, intelligence operatives, and conventional officers to prayer grounds, markets, recreational centres, and other public spaces across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
The directive, issued by Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu, is aimed at strengthening public safety during the festive period, with security presence reinforced at Eid prayer grounds, mosques, markets, recreational centres, and other public locations expected to witness large gatherings. The police reaffirmed the force’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property before, during, and after the festivities.
The operation includes conventional officers, tactical units, intelligence operatives, and marine police teams securing both land and waterways, backed by a strengthened intelligence network to identify and neutralise threats before they materialise. Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and tactical heads have been directed to intensify patrols, especially in densely populated and high-risk areas, while officers have been instructed to maintain professionalism and ensure a visible security presence across communities.
State commands have already swung into action in response to the IG’s directive. In Niger State, the Commissioner of Police directed the mobilisation of operational assets including anti-riot water cannons, gun trucks, and patrol vehicles, alongside the deployment of specialised tactical teams including the Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal, and Anti-Kidnapping Unit to all major Eid grounds and strategic public places.
In Kaduna State, tactical commanders, intelligence operatives, and personnel have been deployed to all nooks and crannies of the state, including Eid prayer grounds, recreational centres, markets, highways, and other strategic locations. The command also reiterated a strict ban on the use of knockouts, fireworks, and other explosive materials during the celebrations, warning that violators would be arrested and prosecuted.
In Delta State, a robust operational deployment comprising conventional police personnel and tactical units has been emplaced at all Eid prayer grounds and other strategic locations across the state. Security agencies also warned criminal elements including cultists and other mischief-makers to desist from unlawful acts, stressing that they are fully prepared to deal decisively with any threat to public peace.
Jigawa State police announced that pre-Sallah activities include intensified confidence-building patrols, intelligence gathering, and surveillance operations across all 27 local government areas, with tactical units including the Mobile Police Force and Rapid Response Team set to complement conventional policing efforts at prayer grounds and social gathering venues.
The police have also issued public safety advisories across multiple states. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious persons or activities to the nearest security agency, while parents and guardians have been cautioned to warn their children and wards against misconduct, unlawful gatherings, or activities capable of disrupting public peace. Community and religious leaders have also been called upon to continue promoting harmony and lawful conduct in the spirit of the season.
The IG extended felicitations to Muslim faithful across the country, wishing them a peaceful and joyous Eid al-Fitr celebration at the close of the holy month of Ramadan.
