President Bola Tinubu has expressed grief over the explosions in Maiduguri and directed security chiefs to move to the city following the attacks that left 23 people dead and 108 injured.
The president, in a statement on Tuesday, said the incident was “profoundly upsetting” and extended condolences to victims and residents of Borno State.
“The recent news from Maiduguri, Borno State, is profoundly upsetting. I mourn those who lost their lives, sympathise with the injured and stand in solidarity with the people of Borno during this challenging time,” he said.
The Borno State Police Command had earlier said the explosions occurred on Monday evening at the Maiduguri Central Market, the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital gate and the Post Office Flyover area. Police spokesperson Nahum Daso said the attacks were carried out by suspected suicide bombers using improvised explosive devices.
Governor Babagana Zulum also condemned the incident, describing it as cruel and cowardly, and urged residents to remain calm and vigilant.
Tinubu said the attacks were a sign of pressure on armed groups by security forces.
“I want to make it categorically clear that these acts of terror are the final desperate and frantic attempts by criminals and terrorist elements trying to instil and spread fear, as they are under constant pressure from our brave armed forces and security agencies operating in various theatres,” he said.
“We will continue to intensify our efforts against all criminal elements, wherever they may be.”
The president commended security personnel for repelling attacks on military positions in the state.
“I must commend the courage and fighting spirit of our patriotic troops who successfully repelled the coordinated attacks by these terrorists on military positions in the state.
“The Monday attacks were desperate acts of the evil-minded terrorist groups. Our gallant military and civilian task forces will curtail and put them down.”
He said he had approved additional equipment and operational support for security agencies and directed them to take charge of the situation in Maiduguri.
“Just last weekend, during a security meeting with leaders of security and intelligence agencies, I approved additional equipment and operational support to enhance their capabilities. This effort is already in progress.
“Additionally, I have directed security chiefs to move to Maiduguri to take charge of the situation. I have also directed the emergency agencies to provide proper care for the injured.”
Tinubu said the government would continue to pursue those responsible.
“There is no place in Nigeria where terrorists will find safety. We will locate them, confront them, and completely defeat them.
“Nigeria will not succumb to fear.”
The attacks are part of renewed violence in northeastern Nigeria linked to insurgent groups, including Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
