Military warns residents of north-east to avoid crowded areas during celebrations •FRSC deploys 581 personnel, ambulances in Jigawa, NSCDC deploys 4,000 in FCT •Sokoto police assures adequate security ban gun fire, illegal procession Michael Olugbode, Linus Aleke in Abuja, Ibrahim Shuaibu in Dutse and Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto The federal government has declared Wednesday, May 27 and Thursday, May 28 as public holidays to mark this year’s Eid-ul-Kabir celebration, one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement issued by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Magdalene Ajani.

The declaration came as millions of Muslims across Nigeria and around the world prepare to commemorate the festival, which symbolises sacrifice, obedience to God and compassion for humanity.

In the statement, the federal government extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful at home and in the Diaspora, urging Nigerians to use the sacred period to pray for peace, unity and national progress.

“The federal government urges all Nigerians to use this period for prayer and sober reflection, asking for divine guidance upon the country as it continues its pursuit of peace, security and prosperity for every citizen,” the statement read.

The government described the celebration as a spiritually significant occasion rooted in faith, sacrifice and shared humanity, stressing the need for citizens to embrace tolerance and national cohesion at a time the country continues to confront economic and security challenges.

The two-day holiday declaration is expected to trigger massive movement of travelers across the country as families gather for the celebration, with transport hubs, markets and livestock centres already witnessing increased activities ahead of the festivities.

The federal government, however, reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence and national unity, wishing Muslims across the country a peaceful, joyous and spiritually fulfilling Eid celebration.

Military Warns Residents of N’East to Avoid Crowded Areas During Sallah The Nigerian military has warned residents of the North-East to avoid crowded areas during the Eid El Kabir celebrations amid heightened security concerns in the region.

The military also urged residents to remain vigilant throughout the festive period, comply with security directives, and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to security agencies to prevent possible attacks.

In a statement by the Media Information Officer of Joint Task Force (North East) Operation Hadin Kai, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Theatre Command said extensive security measures had already been put in place ahead of the celebrations.

According to him, “In keeping with its mandate to protect lives and property across the Theatre, the Command wishes to inform the general public that comprehensive security arrangements have been put in place well ahead of the celebrations to ensure a safe and secure environment for all.

“Ahead of Wednesday’s celebrations, troops have been forward-deployed to critical and vulnerable locations across all sectors of the Theatre, surveillance and ISR assets have been fully activated, patrols have been intensified, and security forces are operating in close coordination with sister agencies, the CJTF, and community vigilance groups to forestall any threat and guarantee a secure festive period for all residents.

“In addition, members of the public are strongly advised to observe the following security guidance in the days leading up to and throughout the celebrations.

“Conduct Eid prayers and festivities as close to your homes and familiar localities as possible,....