TDFresh security intelligence has raised concerns over a potential wave of coordinated terrorists’ attacks targeting key infrastructure within Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT), particularly around Abuja.
According to a report by Agence France-Presse (AFP), an internal memo issued by the Nigeria Customs Service and dated April 13 revealed a “credible report”.
The report indicated that extremist groups, including Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province, are planning a series of coordinated attacks within Abuja and its surrounding areas.
The memo called for heightened vigilance and an “enhanced level of security” across the FCT, as authorities respond to what appears to be an evolving threat landscape.
Among the potential targets identified are the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, the Kuje Prison, and the Wawa military prison located in neighbouring Niger State.
Kuje Prison Under Threat by Terrorists
Security sources cited in the report indicated that operatives linked to ISWAP may have already infiltrated the FCT to facilitate the planned attacks.
The development has intensified concerns among security agencies, given the strategic importance of the listed targets.
The Kuje correctional facility remains a particularly sensitive location following the 2022 Kuje prison attack.
During the attack, ISWAP fighters stormed the prison and freed hundreds of inmates, including suspected militants.
The incident exposed vulnerabilities in the country’s correctional and security infrastructure.
Precautionary Measures Against Terrorists’ Attack
In response to renewed threats, authorities in the Kuje Area Council recently imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in select communities after receiving intelligence suggesting a possible armed assault on the facility.
Local officials described the intelligence as pointing to a “potential kinetic assault”.
It prompted precautionary measures to safeguard lives and property.
The memo further revealed that a separate plot targeting the Wawa military prison is allegedly being coordinated by Boko Haram elements operating in Niger State.
The plot was done in collaboration with extremist factions such as Ansaru and Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin across the Sahel region.
Implications of Terrorists Attack
Analysts say the mention of multiple groups suggests a possible convergence of extremist networks.
The report raised the stakes for Nigeria’s security agencies.
The document also highlighted a troubling pattern.
It noted that the planned attack on Abuja’s airport may be linked to recent assaults on aviation facilities in Niger Republic.
The assault included an incident in Niamey reportedly claimed by an Islamic State affiliate.
Despite the alarming intelligence, Nigerian government officials have maintained that Abuja remains safe and that there is no immediate threat to residents or critical infrastructure.
Authorities have also characterized recent foreign security advisories as precautionary rather than indicative of imminent danger.
Nonetheless, security agencies are understood to be on heightened alert, with increased surveillance and protective measures being implemented across identified high-risk locations.
The situation continues to be closely monitored as officials work to prevent any potential breach and reassure the public.
