A US-based humanitarian organization, Equipping the Persecuted, has sounded the alarm over a potential terrorist attack targeting Christian communities in northern Nigeria on Christmas Day. The group, led by Judd Saul, warns that Al Shabab-linked groups, possibly with ties to ISWAP, are gathering forces around the Plateau-Nasarawa border, planning to strike in areas like Riyom, Bokkos, Kafanchan, and Agatu.
The Department of State Services (DSS) has confirmed they’re aware of the intelligence and are taking preventive measures. “The service is aware; we have the intelligence report, and we are already working on it,” a senior DSS officer said. However, the Nigerian Presidency has dismissed the alert, cautioning that it could heighten fear and insecurity.
These regions have witnessed deadly attacks in 2025, including the killing of six residents in Kwi, Riyom, in October, and 32 villagers in Jebu, Tahoss District. Equipping the Persecuted, which serves persecuted Christians, is urging the Nigerian government and US authorities to act swiftly to prevent a “Christmas Day massacre” ¹ ².
The warning was issued during a roundtable meeting in Washington DC, attended by US lawmakers like Congressmen Riley Moore and Chris Smith, and Senator James Lankford. They’ve been advocating for stronger measures to address Nigeria’s insecurity and alleged targeting of Christians.
