Authorities in Nigeria’s capital territory have begun joint security patrols around churches in border communities as part of efforts to deter criminal attacks and strengthen safety during the festive season.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command announced on Monday that the operation, launched in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), local hunters, and vigilante groups, is focused on forested corridors linking Abuja to Kaduna and Niger States.
Police spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh said the patrols, which commenced on 9 November, were ordered by the FCT Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye, to enhance security for worshippers and residents during the so-called “ember months,” when insecurity typically spikes.
“The joint operation is intended to boost community confidence and ensure that religious activities can take place without fear of harassment or attacks,” Adeh said in a statement.
Church leaders in affected areas were briefed on security awareness measures and urged to avoid late-night gatherings, maintain direct communication with the police, and immediately report suspicious behaviour.
Dantawaye directed officers to block routes commonly used by criminal groups and to maintain constant surveillance of established security posts in the forests.
He appealed to residents to support the initiative by sharing intelligence and contacting the command through emergency hotlines 08032003913 and 08068587311.
The move comes amid continued national efforts to tackle banditry and abductions in areas surrounding Abuja and neighbouring states.
