A LEAKED internal memo has raised fresh concerns over security in the Federal Capital Territory, with indications that Boko Haram insurgents may be planning coordinated attacks on critical infrastructure in Abuja and neighbouring Niger State.
The document, reportedly issued by the Nigeria Customs Service and obtained by News Point Nigeria, identified key potential targets including the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and a correctional facility within Abuja.
The report also referenced a military detention centre in nearby Niger State as part of the suspected plot.
According to a reliable source at the Customs headquarter, who spoke to News Point Nigeria on condition of anonymity, although the memo did not explicitly name the prison, intelligence suggests that the facility in question is the Kuje Prison, where several Boko Haram suspects are currently being held.
The source added that the nature of the threat points to an attempt to free detained insurgents while simultaneously targeting strategic national assets.
The memo further noted that Nigerian security forces have been placed on high alert in response to the intelligence.
It warned that the suspected plan bears similarities to a recent attack in Niamey, where terrorists targeted an air force base in January, injuring four soldiers and damaging an aircraft.
“Their intention is to release detained terrorists and inflict significant damage on critical aviation infrastructure,” the memo stated, adding that there appears to be a “concerning correlation” between the potential targeting of the Abuja airport and recent large-scale attacks on aviation facilities in Niger Republic, particularly in Niamey and Tahoua.
This newspaper reports that the pattern indicates a possible attempt by insurgents to replicate similar attacks within Nigeria, raising the stakes for national security agencies.
The development comes amid heightened concerns over safety, following a recent advisory by the US State Department, which authorised non-emergency government staff and their families to leave its embassy in Abuja due to the prevailing security situation.
However, the Federal Government has downplayed the advisory, describing it as a precautionary measure based on internal protocols rather than a direct response to imminent threats.
