The Nigeria Customs Service has sounded a stark security warning over intelligence pointing to planned, coordinated terrorist attacks targeting key locations in the Federal Capital Territory and parts of Niger State, in what officials describe as a credible and imminent threat.
In an internal memo issued by the Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of Enforcement, Investigation and Inspection, Timi Bomodi, on behalf of the Comptroller-General, the Service disclosed that the plots are linked to Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
According to the document, intelligence received by the Customs leadership indicates that both groups are planning “a series of coordinated attacks on strategic locations” within Abuja and neighbouring Niger State. Among the high-profile targets identified are the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, the Kuje Custodial Centre, and the Wawa Military Detention Facility in Kainji.
The memo paints a deeply concerning picture of militant activity, revealing that operatives linked to ISWAP have already infiltrated the capital to lay the groundwork for the attacks. It identifies one Ismail Dan Hajja as the alleged leader of the group’s Kano cell coordinating elements of the operation, while a separate plot targeting the Wawa facility is reportedly being driven by a Boko Haram cell under a figure named Sadiku, in collaboration with factions tied to Ansaru and Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimeen.
Customs officials warned that the planned assaults are aimed at achieving strategic objectives, including the release of detained fighters and the destruction of critical national infrastructure. Particular concern was raised over the aviation sector, with intelligence suggesting a deliberate focus on airport facilities.
“Their intention extends beyond disruption,” the memo stated, noting that militants are seeking “to release detained terrorists and inflict significant damage on critical aviation infrastructure.”
It added that the targeting of Abuja’s airport mirrors recent large-scale attacks on aviation facilities in neighbouring Niger Republic, including incidents in Niamey and Tahoua, raising fears of an attempt to replicate those tactics in Nigeria.
In response, the Service has ordered an immediate tightening of security across all critical assets within its jurisdiction, especially in the FCT and surrounding areas. Commands have been directed to intensify patrols, reinforce surveillance and strengthen protective coverage around sensitive installations.
“There is an urgent need to enhance security measures and increase patrols around critical infrastructure,” the directive stressed, calling for heightened vigilance at Customs formations and strategic locations, particularly the airport and command headquarters in Abuja.
Strict access controls have also been mandated, with officers instructed to subject all visitors to thorough screening and deny entry to anyone without a clear and legitimate purpose. The memo emphasised the need for proactive, coordinated action to pre-empt and neutralise any emerging threats across vulnerable points.
Additional reinforcements have been deployed, with operational units including FOU Zones B and D, as well as the CIU and CPU, tasked with bolstering security presence and maintaining sustained patrols.
Officers on duty have been ordered to remain in constant communication with central command, while supervisory rounds are to ensure full accountability of personnel assigned to guard duties.
“Any suspicious movement should be reported immediately,” the memo warned, before concluding with a blunt instruction underscoring the gravity of the situation: “Treat as urgent.”
The alert comes against a backdrop of heightened security anxiety in Abuja and adjoining states. It also follows similar concerns recently raised by the United States, which led to the suspension of consular services at its Embassy in Abuja over security risks, further underlining the seriousness of the evolving threat landscape.