The Defence Headquarters has announced that proactive measures are in place to prevent attacks during the Christmas festivities across Nigeria.

In a statement on Sunday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja, said the Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with other security agencies, had intensified operations in identified vulnerable areas.

“The DHQ wishes to inform the public that robust and proactive measures aimed at preventing any attacks during the Christmas festivities have been emplaced. Additional troops have been deployed to strategic locations and routes, while special forces units and air support elements have been placed on high alert to ensure rapid response capability,” the statement read in part.

Onoja added that surveillance activities, including aerial monitoring and intelligence gathering, had been heightened to track the movement and communication of suspected criminal groups.

Unit commanders have been directed to strengthen patrols, establish fortified checkpoints, and maintain close collaboration with community leaders, local vigilante groups, and state security formations.

“Furthermore, surveillance efforts—including aerial monitoring and intelligence gathering—have been heightened to track the movement and communication patterns of suspected criminal groups. Unit commanders in all areas have been directed to strengthen patrols, establish fortified checkpoints, and maintain close collaboration with community leaders, local vigilante groups, and state security formations,” he said.

The DHQ emphasised that the Armed Forces remain committed to protecting lives and property, with national security and stability remaining a top priority as citizens prepare to celebrate.

Onoja also urged public cooperation, stressing the importance of vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities.

“Citizens’ cooperation remains a critical component of national security. All reports will be treated with urgency and confidentiality. We urge citizens to remain calm but vigilant, and to promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest security formation,” he said.

He further conveyed Christmas and New Year greetings from the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. O.O. Oluyede, while encouraging wide dissemination of the advisory to the public.

Similarly, the Rivers State Police Command, on Sunday, nnounced enhanced security measures for the Yuletide season, with tactical units deployed to waterways, recreational centres, and other identified hotspots across the state.

The command’s spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko, said the initiative is part of a comprehensive security framework aimed at providing visible policing, strengthening surveillance, and facilitating rapid response to potential threats.

“The Rivers State Police Command has initiated proactive measures to guarantee a peaceful and secure Yuletide season, underscoring the imperative of synergy with sister security agencies to maintain law and order across the state,” the statement read.

Iringe-Koko added that Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju had directed area commanders and divisional officers to ensure strategic deployments in collaboration with stakeholders to make the celebrations safe and orderly.

“Under the leadership of CP Adepoju, tactical teams have been deployed to strategic locations, including entry and exit points, waterways, motor parks, hotels, recreation centres, churches, mosques, and other identified hotspots. This deployment is designed to provide visible policing, enhance surveillance, and facilitate rapid response to potential security breaches,” she said.

The police command also emphasized community engagement, working closely with traditional rulers, youth organisations, and religious leaders to foster trust, encourage early intelligence sharing, and prevent incidents during the festive period.

Residents were advised to take personal precautions, such as securing homes, supervising children to prevent unsafe activities like fireworks, and reporting suspicious behaviour promptly.

“The Rivers State Police Command reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding lives and property before, during, and after the Christmas celebration. Citizens are encouraged to report incidents or concerns to the nearest police station or via dedicated public lines,” Iringe-Koko said.

The police spokesperson concluded by extending warm Yuletide greetings to residents.

“The Rivers State Police Command extends warm wishes to all Christians for a joyous Christmas and a prosperous New Year,” she added.