Nigeria's DSS warns of planned terrorist attacks on Sokoto universities

The Department of State Services (DSS) in Nigeria's Sokoto State has issued a stark warning regarding credible intelligence of planned attacks on tertiary institutions by terrorist and bandit groups. The alert, dated July 18, 2026, indicates a potential shift in the operational focus of these criminal elements from targeting primary and secondary schools to universities and other higher education facilities.

According to the DSS alert, addressed to the Sokoto State Government, students, lecturers, non-academic staff, and their families could be targeted for abduction. The Service highlighted that the concentration of people within these institutions makes them attractive targets for criminal groups. Such attacks could have severe consequences, including the disruption of academic activities, widespread fear, and a blow to public confidence in the government's ability to ensure safety.

The DSS emphasized that a successful attack could also damage Nigeria's international image and exacerbate the existing insecurity that affects educational activities in various parts of the country. The alert, signed on behalf of the State Director of Security, B. Abdulaziz, urges the state government to treat the warning with urgency.

Consequently, the DSS called for an immediate and proactive strengthening of the security architecture surrounding all tertiary institutions in Sokoto State. Recommended measures include enhanced surveillance, improved intelligence gathering, stricter access control, and the establishment of rapid-response mechanisms. The Service has already alerted relevant security and response agencies to the emerging threat and urged them to deploy appropriate countermeasures. Stakeholders in the education sector and the public are also urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly.