Army Dismisses Alleged Terrorists’ Plan To Attack Worship, Learning Institutions Nationwide

Nigerian Army has described as fake news reports by Boko Haram that indicate terrorists are planning to launch attacks on institutions of learning and places of worship across the country.

The Army spokesperson Col. Appolonia Anele described the document as fake, intended to cause tension across the country. Anele said the document was not from the Army, adding that it’s a “speculation.”
She, however, assured that the Nigerian Army had heightened alertness and asked commands to ensure there were no successful attacks on any facilities.

“Even though I doubt the authenticity. My GOC said he got the same message before we left for Benin two days ago. That he has directed commands on it.

“I feel it is one of those text messages circulated to create palpable fear,” said an officer attached to 2 Division Nigerian Army. An unverified memo to the 2 Division Nigerian Army alerted units and formations nationwide to heighten surveillance and preparedness to avert mass abductions.

According to the document, signed by one A.M. Sodiq, available intelligence indicated increasing mobilisation of resources and foot-soldiers by terrorist groups for possible coordinated attacks on places of worship, learning institutions, National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) Orientation Camps and other vulnerable targets in parts of the country, particularly, within the North-East, North-West, North-Central and parts of the South-West regions, any moment from now.

According to the document, among the identified targets are Catholic and Protestant Churches, as well as primary and secondary schools, among other vulnerable locations.

The report noted that the alert is further reinforced by reported movement of scores of armed fighters from Katsina through Kaduna en route Plateau State.

“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.

“Of particular concern is the targeting of educational institutions, with the anticipated period of the attack assessed to coincide with the resumption of schools for the 2026/2027 academic session. The timing is intended to exploit the concentration of students and staff to cause mass casualties and heighten public fear and insecurity ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“This development suggests possible progression from intent to preparatory activity and therefore warrants heightened vigilance around identified locations and similarly exposed facilities.

In view of the foregoing, there is a need for intensified surveillance and enhanced defensive security around the identified targets and other public places.”