By Harriet Tornguvan
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has assured Nigerians of comprehensive security measures put in place to guarantee safety and prevent any form of attack during the Christmas festivities.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, the DHQ said the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), in collaboration with other security agencies, have intensified operations across identified vulnerable areas nationwide.
According to the statement, additional troops have been deployed to strategic locations and major routes, while special forces units and air support elements have been placed on high alert to ensure swift response to any security threat.
Surveillance activities have also been significantly enhanced, including aerial monitoring and intelligence gathering, to track the movements and communication patterns of suspected criminal elements. Unit commanders have been directed to increase patrols, establish fortified checkpoints, and maintain close coordination with community leaders, local vigilante groups, and state security outfits.
The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Armed Forces to protecting the lives and property of all Nigerians, stressing that national security and stability remain top priorities.
While assuring citizens of maximum protection, the DHQ emphasized that public cooperation is vital to the success of ongoing security operations. Nigerians were urged to remain calm but vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities to the nearest security formation, with assurances that all reports will be treated with urgency and confidentiality.
“The cooperation of the public remains critical in ensuring the effectiveness of our operations,” the statement noted.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General OO Oluyede, through the statement, extended warm Christmas greetings to Nigerians and wished them a peaceful celebration and a prosperous New Year, urging the media to disseminate the information widely in the public interest.
