The Nigerian Army has confirmed that multiple suicide bomb explosions struck Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, on Monday evening, describing the incident as a coordinated terrorist attack targeting civilians during the Ramadan Iftar period.
In a press statement issued by the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, the military said the explosions occurred at about 7:05 p.m. on March 16, 2026, within the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council.
According to the Army, the attacks were carried out by suspected Boko Haram suicide bombers who detonated improvised explosive devices at three strategic and crowded locations—the Post Office area, Monday Market axis, and the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH).
Confirming the incident, the Army stated, “The cowardly attacks targeted crowded public areas in an attempt by the terrorists to inflict mass casualties and create panic within the metropolis.”
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit and other security agencies, responded swiftly by securing and cordoning off the affected areas to prevent further explosions and casualties.
Emergency response teams, including officials of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), were immediately mobilised to evacuate victims to medical facilities such as the General Hospital, Specialist Hospital, and UMTH, where injured persons are currently receiving treatment.
The Army further disclosed that intelligence reports indicate the احتمال of multiple suicide bombers being deployed into Maiduguri as part of a coordinated operation.
“We have intensified surveillance, patrols, and counter-IED measures across the metropolis to track down any remaining suspects and prevent further attacks,” the statement added.
Residents have been advised to remain vigilant, avoid crowded areas, and promptly report suspicious persons or objects to security agencies.
Security presence has been reinforced across Maiduguri, with increased patrols and checkpoints mounted at key locations. Authorities say investigations are ongoing, while efforts have been intensified to apprehend those responsible and dismantle any remaining terrorist cells linked to the attack.
