Nigerian Military Dismantles Suspected Suicide Bombing Network in Adamawa, Arrests Eight Suspects, Seizes Explosives and Terrorist Logistics The Nigerian military has announced the dismantling of a suspected suicide bombing network in Adamawa State, with the arrest of eight individuals linked to the recent Gamboru Market Mosque attack, according to Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI. The arrests were made following intelligence-led cordon-and-search operations in the Yan Lemo area of Mubi South LGA. Among the eight suspects, two were identified as key facilitators who supplied materials for the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) used in the attack. Searches of their residences yielded cash, mobile phones, ID documents, ATM cards, jewellery, and other personal items, all undergoing forensic analysis. In a related operation on January 4, troops intercepted 45 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (about 1,125 litres) in Mayo Nguli, Maiha LGA, suspected to be intended for terrorist activities. The suppliers escaped, and the petroleum products were secured. All suspects remain in military custody for detailed interrogation to gather further intelligence before being handed over for ongoing investigations. The military emphasized that these operations are part of a broader effort to disrupt terrorist networks, dismantle supply chains, and prevent future attacks. The military also urged the public to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with security agencies to strengthen security in the North East.

Nigerian Military Arrests Shariff Umar, Alleged Mastermind of North-East Suicide Bombings Including Deadly Maiduguri Mosque Attack Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Hadin Kai have arrested Shariff Umar, also known as Yusuf, identified as the key coordinator of a suicide bombing network responsible for multiple attacks and attempted attacks across Nigeria’s North-East region, including the Maiduguri mosque bombing. The arrest followed intelligence-driven cordon-and-search operations carried out in the Kalmari area of Maiduguri on December 31, 2025. According to a military statement, 14 suspects linked to suicide bombing activities were apprehended during the operation. Investigations revealed that Umar played a central role in recruiting, preparing, and deploying suicide bombers, as well as coordinating logistics and supplying improvised explosive device (IED) components. A detained suspect, Ibrahim Muhammad, reportedly identified Umar as the ringleader of the terror cell. The military said Umar directly coordinated the December 24, 2025, suicide bombing at the Gamboru Market Mosque, where the attacker detonated a suicide vest and died. He was also linked to a foiled suicide bombing attempt in Damaturu, having allegedly handed over IED materials to the intended bomber in Maiduguri. Further investigations implicated Umar’s wife, Yagana Modu, while his stepdaughter confirmed seeing the suspected bomber at their residence prior to the attack. The Nigerian Army said all suspects remain in custody and are undergoing intensive interrogation to dismantle the network, uncover additional collaborators, and recover remaining explosives. The military emphasised the importance of community cooperation, noting that terrorist networks often survive by hiding within civilian populations, and urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.

Nigerian Military's OPHK Identifies Shariff Umar as Key Suspected Coordinator of Suicide Bombing Network in the North East, Calls for Public Cooperation Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) has achieved a significant breakthrough in its ongoing counter-terrorism efforts by identifying Shariff Umar as the primary coordinator behind suicide bombing operations linked to recent attacks and attempted strikes in the North East region. According to a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Sani, the Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai, this development stemmed from intelligence-driven cordon-and-search operations carried out in the Kalmari area of Maiduguri on December 31, 2025. During these operations, 14 individuals suspected of involvement in suicide bombing activities were apprehended. In the course of the investigation, a detained suspected suicide bomber, Ibrahim Muhammad, clearly identified Shariff Umar (also known as "Yusuf") as the mastermind and leader of the terrorist network. Further probes uncovered that Shariff Umar orchestrated the suicide bombing at the Gamboru Market Mosque on December 24, 2025, where his associate, Adamu (now deceased), detonated an explosive vest. He was also pinpointed as the organizer of a thwarted suicide bombing plot in Damaturu, having personally delivered IED components to the bomber in Maiduguri. Additional connections in the network were uncovered, including the role of Shariff Umar's wife, Yagana Modu, and corroboration from his step daughter, Amina, who confessed to having seen the suspected bomber at their home previously. These revelations have bolstered the investigation and highlighted the use of household and community-based hiding tactics by terrorist enablers. The public is therefore encouraged to stay alert and promptly report any suspicious individuals, activities, or movements to security forces. Building trust and collaboration between the military and local communities is crucial for eradicating terrorism and achieving enduring peace in the region.

“I Was Paid ₦100,000 to Bomb Worshippers in Maiduguri” — Arrested Boko Haram Member Confesses to Gamboru Market Mosque Attack An arrested Boko Haram member, Ibrahim Mohammed, has confessed to being paid up to ₦100,000 to carry out suicide bombing attacks on worshippers in Maiduguri. He admitted involvement in the December 24 attack at Gamboru Market Mosque, which killed five people and injured 32 others. According to his confession, the attack was planned by Boko Haram commanders operating between Adamawa State and the Mandara Mountains, with explosives planted inside the mosque and detonated during Maghrib prayers. Mohammed revealed that suicide bombings are paid missions within the terror group and that multiple coordinated attacks were planned across the North-East. He was arrested in Damaturu, Yobe State, by local hunters working with Operation Hadin Kai, after his suspicious behaviour raised alarm.

UN Condemns Maiduguri Mosque Suicide Bombing, Urges Enhanced Security As Insecurity Persists In Borno The United Nations has strongly condemned a suicide bomb attack on a mosque at Gamboru Market in Maiduguri, Borno State, which occurred on Wednesday evening during prayers and resulted in multiple deaths and injuries. The attack has intensified fears over the persistent insecurity plaguing Nigeria’s North-East region, particularly during the festive season. In a statement issued on Christmas Day, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, described the incident as a grave assault on civilians and a direct violation of freedom of worship. He expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the families of the victims, the Borno State Government, and residents of the state, while wishing the injured a speedy recovery. Fall joined Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, in condemning the “heinous attack” and echoed the governor’s call for heightened vigilance and stronger security measures during the festive period and beyond. He warned that the bombing was part of a disturbing pattern of violent attacks recorded in Borno State in 2025, with civilians continuing to bear the brunt of the conflict. Recalling previous deadly incidents, including the September 5 attack on Darajamal in Bama Local Government Area where over 50 civilians were killed, the UN official highlighted the continued use of suicide bombings, improvised explosive devices, and targeted assaults against communities, displaced persons, farmers, traders, and travellers. Reaffirming the UN’s stance, Fall urged all parties involved in the conflict to prioritise the protection of civilians and respect international humanitarian and human rights laws. He assured that the United Nations would continue to support government efforts and provide humanitarian assistance to communities affected by the ongoing conflict in north-east Nigeria.

Northern Governors Condemn Maiduguri Mosque Suicide Bombing, Mourn Slain Kano Lawmakers The Northern States Governors’ Forum has strongly condemned the suicide bombing that struck the Gomboru Market Mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State, describing the attack as barbaric, cowardly and a grave violation of religious sanctity. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening during Maghrib prayers, when a suspected suicide bomber infiltrated the mosque, killing five worshippers and injuring at least 35 others, turning a sacred moment of worship into tragedy. In a statement issued by the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, through his Director-General of Press Affairs, Ismaila Uba Misilli, the governors expressed deep sorrow over the attack and extended condolences to the government and people of Borno State, particularly Governor Babagana Zulum, as well as the families of the victims and those injured. The forum stressed that attacks on places of worship offend human conscience and are intended to instil fear, but vowed that such acts would only strengthen the region’s unity and resolve against terrorism and violent extremism. The governors urged security agencies and authorities in Borno State not to be discouraged, noting that terrorism thrives on fear and division. They called for sustained and intensified efforts to eliminate terrorism and restore lasting peace, while also advocating enhanced security around places of worship and public spaces, especially during festive periods marked by large gatherings. The forum reaffirmed its solidarity with Borno State and pledged full support as security agencies work to prevent further attacks. In addition, the Northern Governors’ Forum mourned the deaths of two serving members of the Kano State House of Assembly, Aminu Sa’ad Ungogo and Sarki Aliyu Daneji, describing their passing as a painful loss to Kano State and democratic governance. The governors extended condolences to the Kano State Government, the legislature, and the families of the deceased lawmakers, praying for eternal rest for the departed and strength for those they left behind.

Nigerian Army Confirms Mosque Suicide Bombing in Maiduguri: 32 Injured, 2 Dead The Nigerian Army has issued an official statement following a suicide bomber attack at a mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, on December 24, 2025. The explosion occurred around 6:00 p.m. during evening prayers, leaving two civilians dead and 32 others injured. The bomber reportedly died at the scene, with two of the injured later succumbing to their wounds in hospital, while two remain in critical condition. Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) stated that troops, alongside the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit, other security agencies, the Borno State Government, and the National Emergency Management Agency, promptly secured the area and evacuated victims to General Hospital and Teaching Hospital in Maiduguri. The Army emphasized that heightened security measures have been implemented across Maiduguri and surrounding areas, especially during the festive season, to prevent further attacks. The Army called on residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity, and exercise extra caution in crowded places and places of worship. Operation HADIN KAI expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and maintaining security in the North East. The statement was signed by Lt. Col. Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, on December 25, 2025.

Police Begin Screening Church and Mosque Worshippers in Borno After Maiduguri Suicide Bombing Kills Five, Injures Dozens Security agencies in Borno State have intensified safety measures around places of worship following a deadly suicide bombing at a mosque in Maiduguri that claimed at least five lives and left dozens injured. The attack, which occurred around 6pm on Wednesday at the Al-Adum Mosque in Gamboru Market during Maghrib prayers, prompted authorities to introduce mandatory screening of worshippers entering churches and mosques across the state. According to reports, the Borno State Police Command has deployed more than 1,000 officers across Maiduguri and other strategic locations to ensure heightened security during the Christmas season and ongoing Muslim prayers. Police spokesperson Nahum Daso confirmed that security personnel have been stationed at churches, mosques, recreational centres and other crowded areas, with worshippers now required to undergo security checks before gaining entry. Daso explained that although security arrangements were already in place prior to the attack, the latest incident forced law enforcement agencies to further strengthen their presence and operations. He noted that the affected area was immediately cordoned off after the explosion to protect the public and allow emergency responders to carry out their duties. The police described the operation as a joint effort involving all security and emergency response teams, stressing that full security domination would be maintained across key locations. Residents were urged to remain vigilant, be cautious of their surroundings and promptly report suspicious activities or individuals using designated emergency numbers. Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum condemned the attack, describing it as barbaric, inhumane and a desecration of the sanctity of a place of worship. He expressed sadness over the loss of lives and injuries sustained by worshippers, assuring residents that adequate security measures had been put in place to prevent further attacks during the festive period and beyond.

Five Dead, 35 Injured in Suspected Suicide Bombing at Maiduguri Mosque During Prayers At least five people were killed and 35 others injured in a suspected suicide bombing at Al-Adum Juma’at Mosque within Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, on December 24, 2025. The Borno State Police Command confirmed the explosion occurred during prayers at around 6:00 PM. Emergency response teams, including NEMA, SEMA, and police personnel, were immediately deployed to cordon off the area and provide aid. The injured were evacuated to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) and the State Specialist Hospital for treatment. Early investigations suggest the attack involved a suicide vest, though authorities continue to probe the incident. Police have conducted Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) sweeps to ensure no secondary devices remain. Residents have been urged to remain calm and avoid the area while security operations continue. #MaiduguriBombing #BornoStateAttack #SuicideBombingNigeria

Tinubu Orders Security Agencies To Defeat Remnants Of Boko Haram Insurgents. President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies to redouble their efforts in defeating the remnants of Boko Haram insurgents in the country. Tinubu made the call while mourning the victims of the suicide bombing in Konduga, Borno State, according to a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Sunday. The President described the attack as an act of cowardice. He commiserated with the Borno State Government and the people of the state over the incident.

Wike Disputes NEMA Report, Says Abuja Explosion Was Not Suicide Bombing The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has refuted claims that the recent explosion at the Mogadishu Army Cantonment along the Abuja-Keffi Road was a suicide bombing. Speaking during an inspection of ongoing projects across the FCT, Wike clarified that the blast, which occurred on Monday, resulted from an explosive device stolen from a quarry by an uninformed individual. According to the minister, the device detonated en route, and there is no indication that it was a planned suicide attack. “Abuja remains the safest city in Nigeria,” Wike affirmed, adding that his administration remains committed to sustaining peace and security in the nation’s capital. His account directly contradicts an earlier report by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), which attributed the explosion to a suicide bomber wearing an improvised explosive device (IED) in an alleged attempt to infiltrate the army barracks. The explosion, which took place near a bus stop along the Mararaba-Nyanya Expressway, left one person injured. The police have since launched a comprehensive investigation, including forensic analysis, to determine the exact cause and circumstances of the incident. In its Tuesday statement, NEMA claimed that the agency was alerted to the explosion at 1:47 p.m. and that preliminary findings pointed to a suicide bomber who attempted to breach security at the Mogadishu Barracks. “The bomber died instantly when the IED exploded during his attempt to gain entry,” NEMA stated. “One passerby sustained injuries and was evacuated to the National Hospital by the Nigeria Police Force’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit.” The scene was secured by security operatives, and the operation concluded by 5:29 p.m. Agencies present included NEMA, the military, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). As conflicting accounts of the incident continue to circulate, the outcome of the police investigation is expected to provide clarity on what truly transpired. #Wike #AbujaExplosion #NEMA #FCTNews

“The Abuja explosion was not an attempted suicide bombing,” — According to Nigeria Stories, quoting Wike