At least 23 people have been confirmed dead and 108 others injured following multiple explosions that rocked Maiduguri on Monday evening, the Nigeria Police Force in Borno State reported on Tuesday.
Authorities said the attacks were carried out by suspected suicide bombers.
According to Borno State Police spokesperson Nahum Daso, the coordinated explosions occurred around 7:24 p.m. and involved improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Preliminary investigations indicated that the blasts targeted high-traffic and strategic locations, including: Maiduguri Central Market, popularly known as Monday Market; The gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital; Post Office Flyover area.
Security agencies responded swiftly, deploying joint teams of police tactical units, military personnel, and other operatives to secure the affected sites. The areas were cordoned off, and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit conducted sweep operations to detect and neutralize any further threats.
The Commissioner of Police, Borno State, Naziru Abdulmajid visited the sites to assess the situation and expressed condolences to the victims and their families.
READ ALSO: Many feared dead as twin bomb blasts rock Maiduguri
Emergency responders, including the National Emergency Management Agency and the Borno State Emergency Management Agency, evacuated the injured to nearby medical facilities for treatment.
Police authorities assured residents that normalcy has been restored in the affected areas, with security significantly reinforced across the metropolis to prevent further incidents.
Residents were urged to remain calm but vigilant, reporting any suspicious activities or objects to security personnel.
“The police remain committed to maintaining peace and safeguarding lives and property across the state,” Daso stated, emphasizing continued efforts to prevent similar attacks.
The explosions mark one of the deadliest incidents in Maiduguri in recent months, highlighting ongoing security challenges in Borno State amid insurgent activities in the region.