No fewer than 23 persons have been confirmed dead, while 108 others sustained varying degrees of injuries following multiple bomb explosions that rocked Maiduguri on Monday evening.
The coordinated attacks occurred at three separate locations across the city, throwing residents into panic and prompting a swift response from security agencies and emergency services.
A statement issued by the Borno State Police Command, ASP Nahum Daso on Tuesday confirmed the casualty figures.
He revealed that investigations were ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the attacks.
The statement read, “Following the devastating suspected suicide IED explosions that occurred at about 7:24pm on March 16, 2026, at (1) Maiduguri Monday Market, (2) University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital gate, and (3) Post Office Flyover area, Maiduguri.”
“Preliminary investigation reveals that the incidents were carried out by suspected suicide bombers. Regrettably, 23 persons lost their lives, while 108 others sustained varying degrees of injuries.”
Daso added that security agencies responded swiftly to contain the situation and prevent further harm.
“The scenes were immediately secured, cordoned off, and subjected to thorough sweep operations by Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit Base 13 Maiduguri to rule out the presence of any additional threats,” he added.
He further noted that a combined team of police tactical units, the military, and other security operatives had been deployed to the affected areas.
Victims of the explosions were promptly evacuated by emergency responders, including the National Emergency Management Agency and the State Emergency Management Agency, to nearby medical facilities where they are currently receiving treatment.
“He commiserated with victims and their families, while assuring the public of the command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property,” he said.
Authorities also reassured residents that calm has returned to the city.
“The Borno State Police Command wishes to state that normalcy has been fully restored in the affected areas.”
“Meanwhile, security operatives have heightened their presence and surveillance across Maiduguri and its environs to prevent any further occurrences,” he added.
On Monday, SaharaReporters reported that there was tension in the capital of Borno State, Maiduguri, going by a series of explosions, one of which occurred at the entrance of the Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, causing panic and fear across the city.
SaharaReporters gathered that the first explosion occurred around 7pm during iftar, the evening meal that marks the breaking of the Ramadan fast.
In a video obtained by SaharaReporters, some security personnel were seen using torchlights to inspect a car parked at the entrance of a gate.
A voice speaking Hausa could be heard in the background, stating, “A bomb has exploded at the security checkpoint.”
The footage also shows a lifeless body lying beside the vehicle, highlighting the immediate human toll of the attack.
