Army warns of possible attacks on churches, schools
The Nigerian Army has issued a warning regarding potential coordinated attacks by terrorist groups, including the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), targeting churches, schools, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camps, and other vulnerable public areas across the country.
The alert, dated September 9, 2026, was signed by AM Sodiq and sent to the General Officer Commanding, 2 Division of the Nigerian Army at Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment in Ibadan. The document was obtained by SaharaReporters.
Intelligence reports suggest an “increasing mobilization of resources and foot soldiers” by these terrorist organizations, indicating a heightened threat in the North-East, North-West, North-Central, and parts of the South-West. The Army cautioned that attacks could occur “any moment from now,” identifying Catholic and Protestant churches, primary and secondary schools, NYSC orientation camps, and other vulnerable locations as potential targets.
Moreover, the military reported the movement of armed fighters from Katsina through Kaduna toward Plateau State. Suspected ISWAP members are reportedly conducting surveillance on identified targets with assistance from local collaborators.
“Further intelligence revealed that suspected ISWAP members have commenced surveillance and reconnaissance activities against identified targets,” the document states.
The Army expressed particular concern for educational institutions due to the approaching resumption of the 2026/2027 academic session. It noted that terrorists might aim to exploit the influx of students and teachers to inflict mass casualties and instill fear.
“Of particular concern is the targeting of educational institutions, as the anticipated timing of the attacks appears to coincide with the return of schools,” the document asserted. It added that the attacks aim to capitalize on the concentration of students and staff, thereby heightening public fear and insecurity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Army emphasized that the information suggests a shift from mere planning to a phase of preparation for potential attacks. As a result, it has called for increased surveillance and stricter security measures around the identified targets as well as other locations deemed vulnerable.
