DSS Warns of Planned Terrorist, Bandit Attacks on Sokoto Tertiary Institutions

The Department of State Services, DSS, Sokoto State Command, has warned of intelligence indicating plans by terrorist and bandit groups to attack tertiary institutions across the state.

The warning was contained in a security alert dated July 18, 2026, addressed to the Sokoto State Government and signed on behalf of the State Director of Security, B. Abdulaziz.

In the alert titled “Planned Attack on Tertiary Institutions by Terrorist and Bandit Gangs,” the DSS said criminal groups were shifting their attention from primary and secondary schools to universities and other tertiary institutions.

According to the Service, tertiary institutions could be targeted because of the large concentration of students, academic and non-academic staff, as well as their family members.

The DSS warned that such attacks could expose members of the university community to abduction and other forms of violence.

It also cautioned that attacks on tertiary institutions could disrupt academic activities, create widespread fear and undermine the safety of students and staff.

The security agency therefore called for an immediate review and strengthening of security measures around universities and other tertiary institutions across Sokoto State.

It urged relevant security and emergency response agencies to intensify preventive measures and ensure adequate protection for students, staff and educational facilities.

The DSS said the relevant security agencies had already been alerted to the intelligence and urged them to take necessary steps to prevent any planned attack.

The Service also called on the Sokoto State Government to coordinate with security agencies and other stakeholders to strengthen security around tertiary institutions.

The latest warning comes amid persistent security concerns in parts of Sokoto State and other areas of northern Nigeria, where terrorist and bandit groups have been linked to attacks, abductions and displacement.

The DSS urged authorities and institutional managements to remain vigilant and strengthen existing security arrangements in response to the emerging threat.

It stressed the importance of coordinated action among the state government, security agencies and educational institutions to prevent attacks and safeguard lives and property.

The Service did not disclose the specific institutions allegedly targeted or provide details on the groups behind the reported plans.

Authorities are expected to intensify security measures around tertiary institutions across the state following the alert.