The Nigerian Army’s Joint Task Force East, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), has confirmed that Boko Haram was behind the bomb at a mosque located within Gamboru Market in Maiduguri, Borno State.
Five worshippers were k!lled and 35 others injured when a suicide bomber detonated explosives at the mosque during Maghrib prayers on Wednesday, December 24, 2025.
Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, who disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, December 25, said troops and other security agencies have intensified surveillance and security measures within Maiduguri and surrounding areas.
“Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) wishes to inform the general public of an explosion incident that occurred at about 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, 24 December 2025, at a mosque located within Gamboru Market in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC), while Muslim faithfuls were observing evening prayers,” the statement read.
Preliminary findings indicated that the incident was caused by a suspected Boko Haram Terrorist (BHT) suicide bomber, who detonated an improvised explosive device, k!lling himself and 2 civilians on the scene.
“Troops, in conjunction with the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, other sister security agencies, Borno State Government and NEMA responded promptly, secured, and cordoned off the affected area to prevent further harm and ensure public safety. Casualties were immediately evacuated to the General Hospital and the Teaching Hospital in Maiduguri for prompt medical attention.
“A total of 32 civilians sustained varying degrees of injuries. Regrettably, 2 of the injured civilians were later confirmed d3ad at the hospital, while 2 others are currently in critical condition. The remaining injured persons are stable and receiving appropriate medical care.
“Troops and other security agencies have since intensified surveillance and security measures within Maiduguri and surrounding areas. Members of the public are advised to remain calm and security conscious especially during the yuletide season.
“The public is also urged to be on the look out for teenagers with suspicious looks. It is advised to avoid crowded places and maintain extra vigilance at religious places, especially churches during the yuletide period. Citizens are urged to promptly report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest security post.
“OPHK commiserates with the families of the deceased and assures the public of its continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property.”
