The Yobe State Government has ordered the closure of recreational centres across the state during the Eid period due to security concerns, aiming to prevent large gatherings and reduce potential risks to public safety.
According to the government, the move is part of broader precautionary measures to ensure a peaceful celebration, especially as festive periods typically attract large crowds to entertainment venues.
Explaining the decision, the Special Adviser on Security Matters, Dahiru Abdussalam, said intelligence reports indicate that the current security situation does not support mass social activities. He added that allowing such gatherings could increase residents’ vulnerability at a sensitive time.
“Public safety remains our top priority. Given the current realities, permitting large gatherings would expose residents to avoidable danger,” Abdussalam stated.
The government emphasised that the directive specifically targets entertainment centres known to draw significant crowds, particularly among young people during festive periods.
The state clarified that the restriction is temporary and strictly preventive. Abdussalam stressed that this should not be interpreted as a permanent shutdown, but as a necessary step to mitigate foreseeable threats.
“The aim is to guarantee a peaceful and incident-free celebration for all residents,” he said, urging citizens to support the initiative.
Security agencies have been directed to enforce full compliance, with field commanders and local authorities tasked with monitoring adherence across all affected areas.
The closure will take effect from Thursday, March 19, through Monday, March 23, 2026, and applies across all 17 local government areas in Yobe State.
The government appealed for public understanding, noting that cooperation from residents is critical to ensuring a safe and orderly Eid al-Fitr celebration.