Nigeria: Numerous fatalities reported as a series of bomb explosions devastate Maiduguri

Reports indicate that multiple bomb explosions hit Maiduguri, Borno State, on Monday, March 16, 2026. Initial accounts suggest there are several casualties, with many residents and worshippers feared dead.

The blasts occurred at the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital and two local markets, known as Post Office and the Monday Market, according to Sirajo Abdullahi, head of operations at Nigeria’s National Emergency Management Agency, or NEMA, in Maiduguri.

This attack follows a pattern of violence in the region, including a major suicide bombing at the Al-Adum Juma'at Mosque in December 2025 that killed five people and injured 35 others. Maiduguri remains a focal point for insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP.

Security operatives are expected to cordon off the affected areas to allow for emergency response and preliminary assessments. Residents are generally advised by authorities to remain vigilant and avoid crowded areas during these periods of heightened insecurity.

Borno’s Governor Babagana Umara Zulum said in a statement Monday he condemned in the strongest terms the explosions.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims and those injured as a result of the blast. The act is utterly condemnable, barbaric and inhumane,” Zulum said.

He called on residents to remain calm, go about their usual activities and report any suspicious movement or activity to security agencies.