The Department of State Services (DSS) has issued a security alert ahead of the yuletide season, calling on Nigerians to be vigilant and report any suspicious persons, movements, parcels, or objects to relevant security agencies.

In a statement on Friday, the DSS spokesperson, Peter Afunanya, said the agency was working with other security and law enforcement agencies to ensure public safety and order during the festive period.

He advised operators and patrons of recreational and motor parks, fun places, worship centres, supermarkets, and other public spaces to be alert and take appropriate measures to protect their facilities and the users.

According to a report by Punch, he also urged Nigerians to shun acts of violence, fake news, and divisive tendencies that could undermine the peace and stability of the country.

“The Service urges all and sundry to remain law abiding and peaceful during and after the celebrations. It calls on everyone to be security conscious and mindful of his/her environment,” he said.

He added that the DSS would continue to collaborate with sister security and law enforcement agencies and all stakeholders to provide adequate security before, during, and after the festive periods.

He encouraged members of the public to use the following contacts to reach the DSS for information or inquiries: Phone Nos: 09153391309, 09153391310, 09088373514; Email: dsspr@dss.gov.ng; and Twitter Handle: @OfficialDSSNG.

The DSS statement comes amid heightened security challenges in some parts of the country, such as banditry, kidnapping, insurgency, and secessionist agitations.

The federal government has repeatedly assured Nigerians of its commitment to safeguard lives and property and restore normalcy in affected areas.

The DSS, as the primary intelligence agency of the country, has been at the forefront of combating threats to national security and providing timely and accurate information to guide policy and action.

The agency has also been involved in several operations to rescue abducted persons, arrest criminal elements, and recover arms and ammunition.

As Nigerians prepare to celebrate Christmas and New Year, the DSS has urged them to cooperate with security agencies and support their efforts to ensure a peaceful and joyful season.