The Nigerian Army has alerted the public that terrorist groups, including Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP, are planning coordinated attacks on churches, schools, and NYSC orientation camps nationwide.
Intelligence reports reveal increasing mobilization of resources and foot-soldiers for potential strikes across the North-East, North-West, North-Central, and parts of the South-West.
A Sept. 9 military memo signed by AM Sodiq warned that these strikes could happen “any moment from now” at identified vulnerable locations.
Reports also indicate that scores of armed fighters have already begun moving from Katsina through Kaduna toward Plateau State.
Military officials confirmed that local collaborators are actively helping terror operatives scope out high-profile targets.
“Further intelligence revealed that suspected members of Islamic States West African Province (ISWAP) have commenced surveillance and reconnaissance activities against identified targets with support from their local collaborators,” the document stated.
Authorities are especially alarmed about vulnerable educational institutions right as students gear up to return to the classroom.
“Of particular concern is the targeting of educational institutions, with the anticipated period of the attack assessed to coincide with the resumption of schools for the 2026/2027 academic session,” the document stated.
Security analysts believe the insurgents aim to exploit crowded classrooms to inflict maximum damage and panic.
It added that the timing was “intended to exploit concentration of students and staff to cause mass casualties and heighten public fear and insecurity ahead of the 2027 general elections.”
Evidence suggests terror cells have advanced past basic strategy and are actively setting up operations.
“This development suggests possible progression from intent to preparatory activity and therefore warrants heightened vigilance around identified locations and similarly exposed facilities,” it said.
In response, the military has ordered immediate security upgrades and heightened surveillance around all high-risk public spaces.
