The Federal Government has stepped up security operations across Nigeria’s North Central region following recent terrorist attacks that killed about 75 villagers in Kwara State, launching a renewed offensive aimed at protecting vulnerable communities.
The operation, code-named Operation Savannah Shield, involves the deployment of combined security forces, including the military, police and national forest guard units, to reinforce existing security structures across the region. Authorities say the operation will be supported by enhanced intelligence gathering and rapid-response strategies.
The latest security push follows the expansion of the national security mandate established by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu when he declared a state of emergency on national security on 26 November 2026.
Condemning the Kwara attacks, President Tinubu described them as beastly and heartless, blaming terrorists for deliberately targeting vulnerable civilians. He directed security agencies to deploy the full strength of state resources to track down and neutralise those responsible for the violence.
As part of the new measures, security presence is being increased in high-risk communities, with particular attention to protecting places of worship. Authorities confirmed that there will be enhanced and more visible security deployment around churches during Sunday services, in collaboration with local community leaders and faith-based organisations.
In addition, the Nigerian Police Force has carried out a nationwide redeployment of officers previously assigned to VIP escort duties.
The reassigned personnel are now returning to community policing roles, boosting security visibility and operational capacity across Kwara, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Nasarawa and Niger states, as well as the Federal Capital Territory.
The Federal Government also reaffirmed its position that counter-terrorism operations will remain Nigerian-led and sovereignty-driven.
However, officials noted that Nigeria remains open to strategic cooperation with international partners, including the United States, particularly in areas such as intelligence sharing, surveillance and reconnaissance support.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the renewed security strategy underscores the government’s commitment to protecting lives, preserving national stability and ensuring citizens can live and worship freely without fear.
Security agencies have urged residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and continue to cooperate with law enforcement by providing timely and credible information.