At least five people were killed and over 35 others injured in a suspected suicide bombing inside a mosque in Maiduguri, the capital of Nigeria’s Borno State, during evening Maghrib prayers on Wednesday. The attack, reported by Reuters on Thursday, has yet to be claimed by any group.
The bombing comes amid growing security concerns in Nigeria’s north-eastern region, which has been plagued by insurgent violence for more than a decade. According to Reuters, militant groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have repeatedly targeted civilians, religious sites, and marketplaces over the past 15 years, leading to widespread fear and instability.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and chaos as worshippers fled the mosque. The blast occurred around 6:00 pm local time at Al-Adum Mosque, when the congregation had gathered for sunset prayers. Injured individuals were transported to Maiduguri University Teaching Hospital and the State Specialist Hospital for treatment.
Masta Dalori, a local market leader, expressed his shock: “No one knows exactly what happened. The bomb exploded during prayers. Allah decides what occurs, but the details of how this happened are still unclear.”
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum condemned the attack, describing it as “extremely reprehensible, barbaric, and inhumane.” In a statement, he urged heightened vigilance at religious sites and public gatherings. He extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and prayers for the injured, emphasising: “Attacking a mosque while Muslims are worshipping is a profound violation of its sanctity.”
Police confirmed the fatalities and reported that bomb disposal teams have cordoned off the area and operations are ongoing. Residents were advised to remain calm and vigilant.
The incident echoes previous attacks in the region. In August, gunmen struck a mosque and nearby homes in north-western Katsina State, killing at least 50 people.
Summary of Recent Attacks in Northern Nigeria
| Date | Location | Target | Fatalities | Injuries | Perpetrator (suspected) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 Dec 2025 | Maiduguri, Borno | Al-Adum Mosque | 5 | 35+ | Unknown |
| Aug 2025 | Katsina, NW Nigeria | Mosque & Homes | 50 | – | Unknown/Insurgents |
The bombing highlights the persistent threat posed by militant groups in Nigeria’s north-east, where both religious and civilian sites remain vulnerable to attacks. Security forces continue to face significant challenges in protecting communities, especially during gatherings at mosques and public spaces.