The Nigerian Army has warned of possible coordinated attacks by terrorist groups, including the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), on churches, schools, NYSC orientation camps and other vulnerable public locations across the country.
The warning was contained in a communication dated September 9, 2026, signed by AM Sodiq and addressed to the General Officer Commanding, 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Ibadan. SaharaReporters reported obtaining the document.
According to the Army, intelligence indicates increasing mobilisation of resources and fighters by terrorist groups for possible attacks across parts of the North-East, North-West, North-Central and some areas of the South-West.
The military warned that the 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.
The Army also reported the movement of scores of armed fighters from Katsina through Kaduna towards Plateau State.
It further disclosed that suspected ISWAP members had allegedly begun surveillance and reconnaissance of some of the identified targets, with support from local collaborators.
“Further intelligence revealed that suspected members of Islamic States West African Province (ISWAP) have commenced surveillance and reconnaissance activities against identified targets with support from their local collaborators,” the document stated.
The military expressed particular concern over schools as the 2026/2027 academic session approaches, warning that terrorists could seek to exploit the return of large numbers of students and teachers to inflict mass casualties and spread fear.
According to the Army, the timing could also be aimed at heightening insecurity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
It said the intelligence suggested that the suspected groups may have moved beyond expressing an intention to attack and could already be undertaking preparatory activities.
“This development suggests possible progression from intent to preparatory activity and therefore warrants heightened vigilance around identified locations and similarly exposed facilities,” the Army said.
The military consequently called for increased surveillance and enhanced security measures around the identified targets, as well as other public facilities considered vulnerable to terrorist attacks.
The warning comes as security agencies face renewed concerns over the ability of terrorist groups to expand their operational reach and exploit soft targets, particularly during periods of increased public activity.
