ALERT: Nigerian Army Warns of Possible Coordinated Terrorist Attacks on Churches, Schools and Youth Camps

A military intelligence alert says extremist groups may be mobilizing fighters for attacks “any moment,” with churches, classrooms and NYSC orientation camps listed as high‑risk targets across multiple regions, including Plateau State.

ABUJA, Nigeria — The Nigerian Army has issued a nationwide security alert warning that extremist groups may be preparing coordinated attacks on churches, schools and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camps “any moment from now,” according to an intelligence memo dated September 9. The alert cites fighter movements across northern states toward Plateau, reports of surveillance by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) operatives, and concerns that reopening schools and approaching 2027 elections could create high‑risk conditions for mass‑casualty attacks.

he alert, titled “Planned Attacks on Places of Worship and Learning Institutions in Parts of the Country,” identified vulnerable locations in the North-East, North-West, North-Central and parts of the South-West.

It specifically listed Catholic and Protestant churches, primary and secondary schools, NYSC orientation camps and other public facilities as possible targets.

The alert said armed fighters were reportedly moving from Katsina State through Kaduna State toward Plateau State, raising concerns about possible attacks in the North-Central state.

Plateau borders Kaduna to the north and lies within Nigeria’s North-Central region, with its capital, Jos, about 200 kilometres southeast of Kaduna.

The Army document also alleged that suspected members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) had conducted surveillance and reconnaissance around some potential targets, allegedly with assistance from local collaborators.

Schools were identified as a particular concern as institutions prepare to reopen for the 2026/2027 academic session.

According to the alert, the reported timing could allow attackers to exploit the concentration of students and school workers, potentially causing mass casualties and spreading fear.

The document also linked the potential attacks to heightened tensions ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, saying the reported activities could indicate movement from terrorist planning toward preparations for attacks.

The Army called for increased surveillance and stronger defensive measures around schools, churches, NYSC facilities and other vulnerable public locations.

The alert was addressed by the General Officer Commanding, 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Ibadan, and bears a Nigerian Army Headquarters, 2 Division received stamp dated September 9, 2026.

Residents, school authorities, church leaders and NYSC officials in affected areas are advised to maintain vigilance, report suspicious movements to security agencies and follow official security instructions.

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