Sequel to the warning by the United States of possible attacks on expatriates and foreign visitors in Lagos during the public holidays marking the Eid-el-Fitri celebrations, security have been beefed up in strategic locations within Lagos and other states.
The US Mission in Nigeria, in a statement on its website, said terror groups planned to attack hotels and waterfronts visited by expatriates during the holiday.
“The US Mission in Nigeria advises that groups associated with terrorist activities might be planning attacks on hotels in Lagos frequented by international visitors, including those located on waterfronts, during the Eid-el-Fitr holidays,” the United States Consulate Nigeria said in a statement.
The US warning, posted on its embassy’s website reads in part: “The US Mission in Nigeria reminds you to review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates. Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.”
According to an AFP report, a similar security warning was given in December last year and in May 2014, when diplomats were warned of possible attacks on two Sheraton hotels in Lagos.
Tight security in hotels, airport
Meanwhile, there was tight security around top hotels frequented by expatriates, wealthy Nigerians and politicians in the Federal Capital Territory on Tuesday.
Additional security measures had been taken to secure the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Maitama.
A new security post with sandbags to protect security operatives had also been erected with armed security operatives on duty.
More sniffer dogs were also deployed while armed security personnel were seen manning strategic parts of the hotel.
At the Sheraton Hotel, the private security guards at the gate were seen meticulously screening vehicles entering the premises.
It was gathered that undercover security operatives were on the ground to foil any security breach and give full protection to guests and hotel workers.
The NICON Luxury Hotel, Abuja also had armed security guards, who were complemented by the hotel’s private guards, who took time to search incoming vehicles.
Also, officials at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, told one of our correspondents that the security awareness at the facility had been high, particularly since the terrorist attack at Ataturk Airport Istanbul, Turkey.
According to them, the number of officers from the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigerian Army, Navy and the Police Force has been increased considerably in the past three weeks.
“Security situation has been tensed, not just in Nigeria but in other part of the world and this has warranted increased security presence at the Abuja airport in the past three weeks, especially after the recent attacks by terrorists at the Istanbul airport in Turkey,” an official said on Tuesday.
