Multiple suicide bombings hit Maiduguri during Iftar

By Zainab Uzomah| Abuja

Several explosions have struck crowded areas of Maiduguri in north-eastern Nigeria, with officials blaming suspected Boko Haram suicide bombers.

The attacks happened at about 19:05 local time on Monday, during Iftar — the evening meal when Muslims break their fast in Ramadan — targeting busy public locations including the Post Office area, the Monday Market axis and the entrance to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.

Nigeria’s military said the blasts appeared to be coordinated, with multiple attackers detonating improvised explosive devices in an apparent attempt to cause mass casualties and spread panic across the city.

In a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, media information officer for Operation Hadin Kai, troops working with police bomb disposal units and other security agencies responded swiftly, securing the affected areas and preventing further harm.

Casualties were taken to nearby health facilities, including the General Hospital, Specialist Hospital and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, where medical teams are treating those injured. Rescue operations were still ongoing late on Monday.

Officials say there are indications that more attackers may have been deployed into the city, raising fears of further incidents. Security patrols and surveillance have since been intensified across Maiduguri, with efforts underway to track down suspects and prevent additional attacks.

Residents have been urged to remain calm but vigilant, avoid crowded places and report anysuspicious activity to security agencies.

The military expressed condolences to the families of those affected, reiterating its commitment to pursuing those responsible for the attacks.