At least 23 people have been confirmed dead, while 108 others sustained different degrees of injuries following coordinated bomb explosions in parts of Maiduguri on Monday evening.
Earlier reports had indicated that the blasts occurred around the Post Office Flyover, the Maiduguri Monday Market and the gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH).
Confirming the casualty figures on Tuesday, the spokesperson of the Borno State Police Command, Nahum Daso, said investigations were ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the attacks.
According to him, the explosions happened at about 7:24 p.m. on March 16, 2026, and were carried out by suspected suicide bombers using Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
“Preliminary findings show that the incidents were the result of suspected suicide bombings. Sadly, 23 persons lost their lives, while 108 others were injured,” he stated.
Daso said a joint security response involving police tactical units, the military and other security operatives was immediately deployed to the affected areas. He explained that the locations were secured, cordoned off and thoroughly searched by the Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit to remove any further threats.
He also disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, Naziru Abdulmaji, visited the affected locations to assess the situation and monitor the ongoing response efforts.
During the visit, the police commissioner sympathised with the victims and their families and assured residents of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
Victims were quickly evacuated by emergency responders, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the State Emergency Management Agency, to hospitals where they are currently receiving treatment.
The police added that normalcy has been restored in the affected areas, while security presence and surveillance have been increased across Maiduguri and its surroundings to prevent further incidents.
Authorities also confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify those responsible for the attacks and bring them to justice.
Residents have been urged to remain calm, stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities or objects to the nearest security agency.
