Twin bomb blasts shatter Maiduguri, renewing fears of insurgent resurgence

Cityscope, Crime Diary

MAIDUGURI, NIGERIA — (NPA) March 16, 2026 — Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, was struck by a double bomb attack at about 7:20 PM, hitting the Monday Market and the gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH). The incident came just hours after security forces repelled an attempted infiltration by Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters. 

According to the Borno State Police Command, the groups had tried to enter the city to carry out an attack but were thwarted. Emergency responders and security personnel were swiftly deployed, and residents have been urged to remain calm and avoid the affected areas. 

As of the time of filing this report, the number of casualties is not yet known.

The blasts followed a series of clashes on the city’s outskirts, with heavy gunfire reported near Ajilari Cross and along the Damboa-Maiduguri Road. While those attacks were contained, tonight’s bombing directly targeted civilian and public spaces, raising fears of renewed insurgent activity after years of relative calm. Authorities are still assessing casualties and damage. 

Last week, officials urged citizens to heighten vigilance as Ramadan approaches its climax. 

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence also warned in a video message after meeting President Tinubu—following attacks on military formations in the state—that terrorist groups often intensify operations during this period, believing that dying now guarantees them paradise.