By Sarah NEGEDU
The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has launched a festive season security operation across Abuja, deploying 2,202 personnel to protect worship centres, event grounds, highways and other public spaces during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
The Command said the deployment is part of strategy to forestall threats and ensure hitch-free movement for residents and visitors throughout the Yuletide.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued Tuesday night by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, who relayed the end-of-year security order on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Miller Dantawaye.
According to the Commissioner, “As we gradually transition into 2026, the FCT Police Command remains resolute in its commitment to sustaining peace, safety, and public order across the Territory. In furtherance of this mandate, the Command has deployed 2,202 personnel across the FCT in line with the 2025 festive season operational order. This proactive deployment is aimed at ensuring a peaceful, secure, and hitch-free celebration for all residents and visitors.”
Adeh explained that personnel have been stationed at major churches, mosques, recreational centres, event grounds, transport terminals, parks, highways and other public areas as part of the meticulously layered security architecture rolled out for the season.
She added that the operation includes intelligence-led patrols, targeted raids on identified black spots, and intensified surveillance on shanties and uncompleted structures that may be exploited by criminal elements.
The Command also disclosed that tactical units, rapid response squads and patrol teams have been activated across the city, backed by increased foot and vehicular patrols, and reinforced by collaboration with sister security agencies to ensure what it described as a “comprehensive and coordinated security coverage throughout the festive period.”
The statement further disclosed that in line with directives from the Inspector-General of Police, Explosive Ordnance Disposal operatives have been deployed to conduct routine security sweeps at worship centres and other gathering points, particularly ahead of Christmas and New Year services.
Meanwhile, the police warned residents against the use of firecrackers, knock-out and other similar devices during the festivities.
“The Command wishes to reiterate that the use of fireworks, firecrackers, banga, knock-out, or any similar explosive devices is prohibited within the FCT. Members of the public are advised to desist from such acts, as anyone found in possession or use of these items will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.”
He further urged residents to remain alert and swiftly report suspicious movement, persons or items to the nearest police station or via the Command emergency lines: 08032003913, 08028940883.
“The Commissioner of Police therefore urges all residents to remain law-abiding and vigilant, and to promptly report any suspicious persons, movements, or items,” the statement added.
