The military has activated a special internal security operation, codenamed Operation Ember Guard, to counter emerging security threats across the South-West zone during the festive season.
The operation, which commenced on December 23, 2025, is designed to proactively curb criminal activities traditionally associated with the end-of-year period.
These include armed robbery, cult-related violence, kidnapping, illegal bunkering, smuggling, vandalism of critical infrastructure, as well as drug and human trafficking.
Announcing the operation, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command and Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force South-West, Operation AWATSE, Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha, said recent intelligence reports pointed to a possible rise in security threats during the Ember months.
Rear Admiral Mustapha explained that Operation Ember Guard is being executed within the mandate of Operation AWATSE, which focuses on protecting critical national infrastructure and sustaining peace and stability across the South-West region.
He noted that the exercise integrates the land, maritime and air components of Operation AWATSE to ensure a robust, coordinated and effective security response.
According to him, the operation is also guided by the Military Strategic Philosophy of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, which prioritises enhanced jointness, a strengthened operational posture, effective administration, and close collaboration with other security agencies through a whole-of-government approach to national security.
The military reassured residents of the South-West of its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property, while creating a secure environment for socio-economic activities to flourish throughout the festive period.
Senior officers from the military and paramilitary agencies were present at the flag-off ceremony, as members of the public were urged to cooperate with security agencies, remain vigilant, and provide timely and credible information to support the operation.
Operation Ember Guard will run until January 15, 2026.
Reporting by MARY FATILE