Terrorists are reportedly plotting attacks on major infrastructure in Abuja and Niger state, according to an internal memo from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
The Associated Press, which obtained the document, reported that potential targets include the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and a correctional facility in Abuja, as well as a military detention centre in neighbouring Niger state.
The report indicated that Nigerian security agencies have been placed on high alert in response to the threat.
The NCS noted that the planned attacks bear similarities to a previous incident in Niamey, the capital of Niger Republic, where terrorists assaulted an air force base in January, injuring soldiers and damaging an aircraft.
“Their intention is to release detained terrorists and inflict significant damage on critical aviation infrastructure.
“An analysis of the report reveals a concerning correlation between the potential targeting of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport Abuja and recent large-scale attacks on aviation facilities in Niger Republic, notably in Niamey and Tahoua,” the publication said.
“This suggests a possible intent by terrorists to replicate the attack patterns within Nigeria.”
The development comes shortly after the United States issued a travel advisory directing non-emergency government personnel and their families to leave its embassy in Abuja due to security concerns.
However, the federal government described the advisory as a precautionary step based on internal procedures, maintaining that the country remains stable.