By: Babagana Bukar Wakil, Maiduguri
An explosion on Tuesday evening rocked Gamboru Market in Maiduguri, Borno State, leaving four civilians dead and 32 others injured.
The military, through its Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba of Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai, said the incident occurred at about 6:00 pm on December 24, 2025, at a mosque within the market while Muslim worshippers were observing evening prayers.
According to preliminary findings, the blast was caused by a suspected Boko Haram suicide bomber who detonated an improvised explosive device, killing himself and two civilians instantly at the scene.
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai, alongside the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, other security agencies, the Borno State Government, and the National Emergency Management Agency, responded swiftly by securing and cordoning off the area to prevent further harm.
Victims were evacuated to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital and the State General Hospital for urgent medical attention.
The military disclosed that 32 civilians sustained varying degrees of injuries in the attack. Two of the injured later died at the hospital, while two others remain in critical condition. The remaining victims are said to be stable and responding to treatment.
Security forces have since intensified patrols and surveillance across Maiduguri and its environs. Residents were urged to remain calm but vigilant, particularly during the yuletide period.
Members of the public were also advised to be security conscious, avoid crowded places, and report any suspicious persons or movements to the nearest security formation, especially around places of worship.
Operation Hadin Kai commiserated with the families of those who lost their lives and reassured residents of its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property in the North East.
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