At least 23 killed in blasts hitting Nigeria’s Maiduguri

At least 23 killed in blasts hitting Nigeria’s Maiduguri
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At least 23 people were killed and more than 100 injured in a series of blasts in Maiduguri, northeastern Nigeria, police reported. The attacks occurred Monday at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital entrance and two local markets, Post Office and Monday Market. Security teams were deployed to investigate suspected suicide bombings.

Authorities have not confirmed any group’s responsibility, but the attacks come amid ongoing violence by Boko Haram and the ISIL-affiliated West Africa Province (ISWAP) targeting military bases in Borno State. The Nigerian military said it repelled early Monday attacks on the outskirts of Maiduguri.

Borno State officials condemned the attacks, linking the surge to intensified military operations in the Sambisa Forest, a stronghold of armed groups. Residents were advised to avoid affected areas while emergency responders and police continue assessments.

Witnesses described chaos at the sites, with many victims dying instantly or at hospitals. Local volunteer groups assisted in evacuating bodies and providing urgent care, highlighting a critical shortage of medical supplies, including blood.

Maiduguri, previously a hotspot for attacks, had seen relative calm in recent years, with major incidents last recorded in 2021 and late 2025. U.S. forces have recently deployed to Nigeria to assist local troops with training and technical support against armed groups.