By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
The recent confirmation by the Nigerian government of joint air strikes with the United States against terrorist enclaves in the North-West is a significant development in the country’s long-running fight against violent extremism. Beyond the diplomatic and military implications, the operation carries an urgent message for ordinary Nigerians: this is a critical moment for heightened vigilance.
When air strikes hit terrorist hideouts, the danger does not automatically end in the air. History has shown that such operations often scatter surviving fighters, forcing them to flee familiar terrain in search of cover, supplies and anonymity. At this stage, terrorists are most desperate—and desperation makes them unpredictable.
This is why Nigerians must take the warning seriously: do not allow or harbour strangers in your environment at this time. Communities must resist the temptation of blind hospitality, especially when dealing with unfamiliar individuals whose movements, stories or intentions cannot be verified. Terrorists on the run often disguise themselves as displaced persons, traders, travellers or job seekers, exploiting compassion to evade security operations.
The success of security agencies depends not only on air power and intelligence-sharing with international partners, but also on the cooperation of citizens. Security agents must be allowed to complete their dispatch operations without interference, obstruction or compromise. Sheltering suspects—knowingly or unknowingly—puts entire neighbourhoods at risk.
This is not a call for fear, profiling or mob action. Rather, it is a call for responsible vigilance. Suspicious movements, unfamiliar patterns, or unusual behaviour should be promptly reported to security agencies through established channels. Silence or indifference can be deadly.
The federal government has repeatedly emphasised that Nigeria’s security crisis has no religious undertone and cuts across regions and beliefs. Terrorism is a shared enemy, and its victims have included Muslims, Christians and people of all backgrounds. Framing the threat accurately helps communities unite against it, rather than fall into suspicion and division.
At moments like this, national security becomes a collective duty. While the military confronts terrorists from the skies and on the ground, citizens must defend their communities with awareness, caution and timely information. Vigilance today could prevent tragedy tomorrow.
READ ALSO:Nigeria Confirms Joint Air Strikes With US Against Terrorist Targets in North-West
In this decisive phase, security is everyone’s business.
Ibrahim Taofeek Kegbegbe is a journalist and a public affairs analyst
