Stay Alert in Public Places, Defence Headquarters Urges Nigerians

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has advised Nigerians to remain vigilant in crowded areas such as markets, churches and other public gathering points as part of efforts to enhance personal and community safety.

In a statement issued on Friday via its official X handle and obtained by The Guardian, the DHQ urged members of the public to promptly report any suspicious behaviour or individuals to the nearest security agency.

The military high command stressed the importance of maintaining situational awareness at all times, noting that public vigilance remains critical to crime prevention and improved security in high-traffic locations.

“Remain alert in crowded places, markets, churches and public gatherings. Promptly report any unusual behaviour or persons to the nearest security agency. Remember to always maintain situational awareness,” the statement read.

The DHQ also called on citizens to cooperate fully with security personnel and take the advisory seriously to help reduce risks and safeguard communities nationwide.

Meanwhile, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to supporting civil authorities and relevant government agencies in addressing the challenges of refugees, migrants and internally displaced persons (IDPs) across the country.

Shaibu gave the assurance while receiving the Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Dr. Tijani Ahmed, during a courtesy visit to the Army Headquarters in Abuja.

The COAS underscored the close link between security and displacement, noting that durable solutions to refugee and IDP challenges depend largely on improved security, stability and effective civil–military collaboration.

He said the Nigerian Army remains aligned with national efforts to restore peace and create a conducive environment for humanitarian and development interventions, adding that ongoing military operations across the country prioritise the protection of civilians and the safe return, resettlement and reintegration of displaced persons.

Shaibu assured the commission of the army’s continued support for humanitarian initiatives aimed at restoring dignity, improving livelihoods and enhancing the overall wellbeing of affected populations.

Earlier, the Federal Commissioner, Dr. Ahmed, commended the Nigerian Army for its sustained support, recalling its critical role in previous evacuation and repatriation exercises of Nigerians from Cameroon, which he said contributed significantly to the success of the operations.

He appealed for continued collaboration as the commission prepares for another similar mission, stressing that effective partnership with the military is vital to ensuring successful humanitarian outcomes.

In a related development, the COAS urged members of the 38 Regular Course Association of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) to remain united and inclusive in their contributions to national development.

Receiving the association’s Executive Committee, led by Rear Admiral Samuel Agada (rtd.), Shaibu highlighted ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Army to enhance operational effectiveness, professionalism and troop welfare.

He added that plans were underway to expand the army’s strength and establish additional depots to better address security challenges nationwide, while urging members of the 38 Regular Course to serve as worthy ambassadors of the Nigerian Army and collaborate with relevant stakeholders in tackling national issues.