A heightened security alert has raised concerns over a suspected coordinated plan to attack major government and security installations in the Federal Capital Territory and parts of Niger State.
An internal memo reportedly issued by the Nigerian Customs Service on April 13 warned of possible strikes targeting critical locations, including the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, the Kuje correctional facility, and a military detention centre in Wawa, Niger State.
The document alleged that multiple armed groups, including ISWAP, a Boko Haram faction, Ansaru, and Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimeen (JNIM), are involved in the suspected plot. It further claimed that some operatives may have already infiltrated the Federal Capital Territory in preparation for coordinated attacks.
Security intelligence contained in the memo suggested that the plan could involve attempts to breach detention facilities and target aviation infrastructure, with the aim of causing disruption and widespread panic.
The report also linked parts of the suspected operation to criminal networks operating around the Kainji Lake National Park area, which has previously been associated with kidnappings and armed attacks across Niger and Kwara States.
According to the memo, the strategy resembles earlier attacks on aviation infrastructure in neighbouring Niger Republic, raising fears of similar attempts within Nigeria.
Customs spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada confirmed the authenticity of the document but described it as a leaked internal communication, declining further details due to the sensitivity of the matter.
In response, the Customs Service has tightened security across its formations, directing officers to increase surveillance, strengthen patrols, and enforce strict access control at facilities within the FCT.
Personnel have also been instructed to thoroughly screen all visitors and deny entry to unauthorized individuals, while intelligence and anti-smuggling units remain on high alert and coordinated with other security agencies.
