Suspected Boko Haram suicide bombers carried out multiple explosions in Maiduguri, Borno State, on Monday evening, triggering panic in parts of the city.
According to a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, the explosions occurred at about 7:05 p.m. on March 16, 2026, within the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC).
The attackers reportedly detonated improvised explosive devices at three locations across the city — the Post Office area, the Monday Market axis, and the entrance to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH). The incidents occurred during the Iftar period, when many Muslims were breaking their fast, making the locations particularly crowded.
The military said the attacks were aimed at causing mass casualties and spreading fear among residents of the metropolis.
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI, working alongside the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team and other security agencies, responded quickly to the incident. Security personnel immediately secured and cordoned off the affected areas to prevent further damage.
Emergency response teams, including officials of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and medical personnel, evacuated injured victims to several hospitals, including the General Hospital, Specialist Hospital and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital for treatment.
Authorities said medical teams are currently attending to victims across various health facilities in the city, while rescue and evacuation efforts continue at the affected locations.
Preliminary findings suggest that the attackers may have deployed multiple suicide bombers into Maiduguri to carry out coordinated attacks at crowded public places.
Security forces have since intensified surveillance, patrols and counter-improvised explosive device (IED) operations across the metropolis in an effort to track down any remaining suspects and prevent further attacks.
Operation HADIN KAI urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, avoid crowded areas where possible and report any suspicious persons, unattended objects or unusual activities to security agencies.
The military also expressed condolences to the families of those affected by the attacks, assuring the public that troops and security agencies remain committed to protecting lives and property while pursuing those responsible for the incident.
