The Defence Headquarters has assured Nigerians that strong security measures are in place to prevent attacks and ensure a peaceful Christmas celebration across the country.
In a statement on Sunday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said the Armed Forces of Nigeria, working with other security agencies, have intensified operations in areas considered vulnerable. According to him, additional troops have been deployed to strategic locations and major routes, while special forces and air support units have been placed on high alert to guarantee swift response to any threat.
Onoja explained that surveillance has been stepped up through aerial monitoring and intelligence gathering to track the movement and communication of suspected criminal groups. He added that unit commanders have been instructed to increase patrols, set up fortified checkpoints, and work closely with community leaders, vigilante groups and state security outfits.
The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed that protecting lives and property remains a top priority, especially as Nigerians prepare to celebrate the festive season. Onoja also appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by promptly reporting any suspicious activity, assuring that all reports would be handled with urgency and confidentiality.
He conveyed Christmas and New Year greetings from the Chief of Defence Staff, General O.O. Oluyede, and encouraged the public to take the advisory seriously.
Similarly, the Rivers State Police Command has announced enhanced security arrangements for the Yuletide period. The command’s spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, said tactical units have been deployed to waterways, motor parks, recreational centres, places of worship and other identified hotspots across the state.
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She explained that the initiative, directed by the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, is aimed at providing visible policing, strengthening surveillance and ensuring rapid response to any security breach. The police are also engaging traditional rulers, youth groups and religious leaders to boost intelligence sharing and prevent incidents during the celebrations.
Residents were advised to take personal safety precautions, secure their homes, closely supervise children and report any suspicious behaviour to the nearest police station or through designated channels.
The Rivers State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property before, during and after the festive season, while extending Christmas and New Year greetings to residents.
