The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Security Committee has announced the reactivation of Operation Sweep FCT, a joint security operation aimed at preventing the spread of kidnapping and other violent crimes into the nation’s capital.
The decision was reached during an expanded security meeting held in Abuja and chaired by the Minister of the FCT, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike. The development was disclosed on Wednesday by the FCT Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye, while addressing journalists after the meeting.
According to the Commissioner, the move became necessary following rising security challenges in some parts of the country, with the FCT determined to remain proactive rather than reactive. He said the strategy was designed to strengthen surveillance, improve intelligence gathering, and increase rapid response capability across the territory.
The security committee comprises senior representatives of all key security agencies in the FCT, including the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, Department of State Services, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. The renewed operation places these agencies under a coordinated framework to ensure seamless collaboration.
Dantawaye explained that the Minister of the FCT had approved and released logistics needed for the smooth execution of the exercise, emphasizing that government support was critical to achieving the objectives of the operation.
“There is a general concern arising from reported cases of kidnapping across the country, and we are determined that the FCT will not be affected. This operation is our early-warning response to criminal activities that threaten peace and stability,” he said.
He revealed that Operation Sweep officially commenced this week and would intensify towards the end of the year when criminal activities often increase. The operation, he added, would focus primarily on violent offences, kidnapping, and armed crime.
As part of the deployment structure, the task force has been divided into four operational sectors. Two sectors are dedicated to the satellite towns of Gwagwalada and Bwari, while the remaining two cover critical areas within Abuja city centre. Patrols are also being extended to Garki, Wuse, Mararaba, Karshi and Orozo.
Special attention is being given to high-risk zones and border communities, with increased patrols and checkpoints established to restrict the movement of criminal elements.
Dantawaye disclosed that security agencies were engaging closely with schools, religious institutions, and community leaders to improve intelligence flow. He stressed that communication channels were being strengthened to ensure that suspicious activities were promptly reported and acted upon.
“We are increasing our presence around schools, places of worship and residential communities. The objective is not only enforcement but also reassurance. Residents must feel safe going about their daily lives,” he said.
The Police Commissioner appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperative, assuring that adequate security arrangements were in place to protect lives and property. He urged the public to continue normal activities without fear, including attending religious services.
He also called for public support through the provision of reliable information, noting that community participation remained essential in preventing crime.
“Our responsibility is protection, but intelligence from residents remains vital. The success of this operation depends on collective effort,” he stated.
With the reactivation of Operation Sweep, authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to keeping the FCT secure and preventing criminal activity before it gains ground.
