Military Unveils Christmas Security Measures
By Wellington Jopelo
The Defence Headquarters has rolled out an expanded security plan to forestall attacks and criminal activities during the Christmas and New Year celebrations across the country.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja, said the Armed Forces of Nigeria have scaled up nationwide operations in collaboration with sister security agencies, with particular attention on areas considered vulnerable during the festive period.
He explained that the military has reinforced its presence on major routes and key locations, deploying additional troops while placing elite units and air components on heightened readiness to respond swiftly to emerging threats. The move, he said, is aimed at guaranteeing a peaceful atmosphere for citizens as they mark the season.
Onoja noted that intelligence and surveillance activities have been significantly strengthened, including increased aerial reconnaissance and information gathering to disrupt the plans of criminal groups. Field commanders, he added, have been directed to intensify patrols, set up stronger checkpoints and sustain close engagement with community leaders, vigilantes and state security structures.
Reaffirming the military’s resolve, the Defence Headquarters said protecting lives and property remains central to its mandate, urging members of the public to stay alert and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious movements or activities promptly.
The statement also conveyed festive goodwill from the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. O.O. Oluyede, to Nigerians, encouraging calm and vigilance throughout the celebrations.
Meanwhile, the Rivers State Police Command has also announced the activation of enhanced security measures to ensure a safe and orderly Yuletide in the state. The command said tactical units have been strategically deployed to public spaces, waterways and other identified hotspots.
Police spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko said the deployments form part of a comprehensive security strategy designed to strengthen visibility, improve surveillance and enable quick response to incidents. She disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, has instructed all area commanders and divisional heads to coordinate closely with relevant stakeholders to secure the festivities.
According to her, police teams have been stationed at major entry and exit points, motor parks, hotels, recreational centres and places of worship, while community engagement has been deepened through collaboration with traditional rulers, youth groups and religious leaders.
Residents were advised to remain security-conscious during the period by safeguarding their homes, supervising children and promptly alerting the police to any suspicious activity.
The Rivers State Police Command reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace before, during and after the festive season, while extending warm Christmas and New Year wishes to the people of the state.