U.S, UK issue security alert on Nigeria



The United States and Britain yesterday raised a security alert on Nigeria.

They warned that the country faces a “high risk” of attack by Boko Haram terrorists during this weekend’s Easter holiday.

But the Police have put their men on high alert, with Inspector General Mohammed Abubakar ordering surveillance on all places of worship during the Easter celebrations.



The UK Foreign Office and the US Embassy in Abuja, issuing the updated travel warnings, noted that Boko Haram carried out attacks on Christmas Day last year.

The UK advised its citizens to avoid travel to Borno, Niger, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto and Yobe states.

“There is a high threat of terrorist attack during religious festivals,” the UK warning read.

The US warning noted the near-daily attacks in Nigeria, noting that there have been “continued threats, including several that mention US interests”.

The warning also noted that personnel from the US Embassy no longer travel to northern Nigeria, a rule put in place after a Boko Haram attack on Kano in January killed at least 185 people.

“The US Embassy continues to monitor closely the ongoing threats posed by Nigerian extremist and criminal groups, and their stated intentions to carry out attacks against the Nigerian government and western interests and targets in Nigeria,” the message read.

The police chief directed zonal and state commands to provide adequate security to all places of worship during the Easter celebrations.

The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, Mr. Ade Shinaba, placed a travel restriction on police personnel.

The IGP’s statement said zonal Assistant Inspectors-General and Police Commissioners should ensure proper coverage of all vulnerable points and highways during and after the period.

The police boss praised Nigerians for being co-operative with policemen in their various communities and called for more support and understanding of the security challenges.

The statement praised for their tireless and selfless service to the nation.

The statement reads: “The administration of the force is committed to giving a new lease of life to the Nigerian Police and ensuring that its past glories are restored, as a highly dedicated, motivated and efficient police force”.

Abubakar urged Nigerians to avail the force with useful information to track down criminals.

Shinaba directed police patrol teams to be very proactive and maintain adequate security around worship and recreation centres.


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