Bomb blast: Army tells Maiduguri residents what to lookout for

By Ayoride Oluokun

The Nigerian Army has advised residents of Borno State to be on the lookout for teenagers with suspicious looks avoid crowded places and maintain extra vigilance at religious places, especially churches during the yuletide period in reaction to the bomb blast at a mosque in Maiduguri, the state capital on Wednesday.

Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI said this in a statement on Thursday while confirming the bomb blast that occurred at about 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, 24 December 2025.

He added that troops and other security agencies have since intensified surveillance and security measures within Maiduguri and surrounding areas following the bomb blast.

“Members of the public are advised to remain calm and security conscious especially during the yuletide season. The public is also urged to be on the look out for teenagers with suspicious looks. It is advised to avoid crowded places and maintain extra vigilance at religious places, especially churches during the yelutide period. Citizens are urged to promptly report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest security post,” Uba said.

He further explained that the bomb blast occured at a mosque located within Gamboru Market in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC), while Muslim faithfuls were observing evening prayers.

He also confirmed that while 32 people were injured in the blast, four people have been so far confirmed dead.

“A total of 32 civilians sustained varying degrees of injuries. Regrettably, 2 of the injured civilians were later confirmed dead at the hospital, while 2 others are currently in critical condition. The remaining injured persons are stable and receiving appropriate medical care,” the Army spokesperson said

He added that preliminary findings indicated that the incident was caused by a suspected Boko Haram Terrorist (BHT) suicide bomber, who detonated an improvised explosive device, killing himself and 2 civilians on the scene.

“Troops, in conjunction with the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team,other sister security agencies, Borno State Government and NEMA responded promptly, secured, and cordoned off the affected area to prevent further harm and ensure public safety.

“Casualties were immediately evacuated to the General Hospital and the Teaching Hospital in Maiduguri for prompt medical attention.

“OPHK commiserates with the families of the deceased and assures the public of its continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property,” Uba said.