Nigeria issues nationwide alert over terrorist threats to schools

Nigerian security agencies have issued a nationwide alert warning of increased terrorist surveillance and mobilization targeting schools, places of worship, and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps, coinciding with the resumption of the academic session. The Nigeria Police Force circulated the alert in a wireless message dated September 13, classified as "Treat as Very Important," to police formations across the country. The intelligence indicates the movement of armed elements from Katsina through Kaduna towards Plateau State. It identifies suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters and local collaborators as conducting reconnaissance of potential targets. The alert warns that planned attacks could coincide with the reopening of academic institutions for the 2026-2027 session, which began on September 14 for many schools. Police commanders were directed to increase surveillance, patrols, stop-and-search operations, and rapid-response capabilities around vulnerable locations. Commissioners of Police were also instructed to strengthen security at state borders and entry points to prevent the infiltration of armed groups.