The headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) has confirmed that the explosion that occurred at about 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, 24 December 2025, at a mosque within Gamboru Market in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC) was caused by a suicide bomber.
This was disclosed in a statement by the spokesman of the Theatre Command, Lt. Col. Sani Uba.
According to Uba, “preliminary findings indicated the incident was caused by a suspected Boko Haram Terrorist (BHT) suicide bomber, who detonated an improvised explosive device (IED), killing himself and two civilians on the scene.”
He added that security forces responded swiftly to the incident.
“The troops, in conjunction with the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, other sister security agencies, Borno State Government, and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), responded promptly, secured, and cordoned off the affected area to prevent further harm and ensure public safety,” the statement read in part.
Lt. Col. Uba said casualties were immediately evacuated to the General Hospital and the Teaching Hospital in Maiduguri for medical attention.
He disclosed that a total of 32 civilians sustained varying degrees of injuries, adding that two of the injured later died at the hospital, bringing the death toll to four, while two others remain in critical condition.
“The remaining injured persons are stable and receiving appropriate medical care,” he said.
While assuring residents of their safety during the festive season, the spokesman said troops and other security agencies have intensified surveillance and security measures within Maiduguri and its surrounding areas.
