Borno attack: Five suicide bombers entered Maiduguri, two still at large — Gov Zulum

The Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, has disclosed that five suicide bombers entered Maiduguri, with two still at large following coordinated explosions that struck the city earlier this week.

Speaking in an interview with BBC News, Zulum said intelligence reports indicate that three of the attackers have already detonated their explosives, while security agencies continue efforts to locate the remaining two.

The attacks occurred at multiple locations across Maiduguri, including the Post Office area, the Monday Market axis, and near the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital. The incidents happened in the evening hours, coinciding with the period when many residents were breaking their Ramadan fast.

At least 23 people were killed and about 100 others sustained injuries in the blasts. The Nigerian military has attributed the incidents to suspected members of Boko Haram.

Zulum said ongoing security operations are focused on preventing further attacks and tracking the two remaining suspects. He noted that intelligence inputs are being shared with relevant agencies to support interception efforts.

Describing the situation as distressing, the governor said he was in Saudi Arabia for lesser Hajj when the attacks took place. He added that he has since returned to Borno State and held meetings with security chiefs to coordinate response measures.

According to him, counterinsurgency operations are currently active in areas such as the Timbuktu Triangle and the Sambisa Forest, with the objective of restricting insurgent movement ahead of the rainy season, which often limits access to remote terrain.

Zulum explained that large gatherings during festive periods can create opportunities for infiltration, adding that screening in a densely populated city like Maiduguri remains complex despite existing security arrangements.

He also referenced visits by senior federal officials in the aftermath of the attacks, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, alongside the Chief of Army Staff, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Inspector General of Police.

President Bola Tinubu, who was on an official visit to the United Kingdom during the period, has also been briefed on developments, according to the governor.

Zulum said governance activities have continued without disruption, noting that the deputy governor remained in the state during the incident. He added that recent military operations have resulted in the neutralisation of a significant number of insurgents in recent months, while stressing that security challenges persist despite recorded gains.

He reaffirmed that authorities are working to strengthen security across the state and prevent further breaches.