- Security operatives shut mall
The United Kingdom has warned its nationals to desist from travelling to the Federal Capital Territory, particularly Abuja, as a result of possible terrorist attack.
This came shortly after the US warned its citizens about the possibility of terror attacks in Abuja.
In its updated travel advice to British nationals travelling to the Federal Capital Territory, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advised against all but essential travel to the FCT, including the city of Abuja.
“The updated advice outlines that there is an increased threat of terrorist attack in Abuja. British nationals are advised to stay alert, avoid non-essential travel within the city and follow the local news and the advice of security authorities.
“The British High Commission remains open for essential services. The travel advice will constantly be reviewed to make sure it reflects the current situation in Abuja and Nigeria,” the United Kingdom said.
The United Kingdom also listed Bauchi, Kano, Jigawa, Niger, Sokoto, Kogi, Abia, Plateau, Taraba, within 20km of the border with Niger in Kebbi State and non-riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa and Rivers States as other states where it advised against all but essential travel.
Meanwhile, a mall located in the Jabi district has shut down operations over security concerns. In a post on its Instagram page, the management of the Jabi Lake Mall said it is reviewing the security situation and would inform customers when it reopens.
“To all our valued shoppers, Jabi Lake Mall will be closed today, Thursday, October 27, 2022. This decision has been taken in the overall interest of the safety of all staff and customers of the mall,” the post reads.
“Centre Management is committed to minimizing any disruptions; however, the safety of our staff and shoppers remains our highest priority.
“Management is constantly reviewing the security situation in consultation with relevant security authorities and will inform you when the mall will be reopened.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused and hope to provide you with a quality shopping experience soon. Thank you.”
To avert any terror attack, the FCT Administration has procured and distributed 60 operational vehicles to security agencies in the nation’s capital, as part of moves to boost security.
The benefiting security agencies include: police, armed forces, NSCDC and other paramilitary organisations, as well as Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA).
FCT Minister, Muhammad Musa Bello, said the intervention was to help improve the capacity of security agencies domiciled in the FCT, to optimally discharge their duties in the Territory
“What we are doing today is to showcase the FCTA’s contribution to the Federal Government’s efforts. It is our expectations that these vehicles and other security equipment will be put to effective use.
“The Administration of President Muhammadu Buhari has put in place, several measures to confront current security challenges and to contain the threats posed by criminals in all forms and guises.
“Through the efforts of our security agencies many potentially devastating
criminal acts have been prevented. In fact, I make bold to say that for every crime committed, several others were nipped in the bud.
“Residents however also have roles to play in this collective fight against crime and criminality by promptly reporting to the relevant security agencies any suspicious individual or situation. It is only by doing this, that the fight against crime can truly be won,” he said.
The Minister disclosed that FCT Security Council has approved the disbursement of N500 Million to six Area Councils, for the commencement of Community Policing scheme in the Territory.
Minister of State for FCT, Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, noted that the procurement of the 60 units of operational vehicles fitted with communication gadgets for the security agencies will further enhance the security architecture of the Territory.
On Wednesday, FCTA had reclaimed part of the Nigeria Law School’s land taken over by proponents of illegal activities in Bwari Area Council.
