Army Identifies Boko Haram Operative as Mastermind Behind Maiduguri Mosque Attack

The Nigerian Army’s Operation Hadin Kai has officially linked the devastating Wednesday evening explosion at a Borno State mosque to a Boko Haram suicide bomber. The attack, which struck during the Maghrib prayer session on December 24, 2025, has claimed five lives and left dozens of worshippers injured.

The blast targeted the Al-Adum Jumaat Mosque, situated within the busy Gamboru Market area of the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council. In a briefing on Thursday, Theatre Command spokesperson Lt. Col. Sani Uba revealed that forensic investigations pointed directly to insurgent activity.

“Preliminary findings indicate the incident was caused by a suspected Boko Haram terrorist (BHT) suicide bomber, who detonated an improvised explosive device, killing himself and two civilians on the scene,” he said.

Following the detonation, a massive multi-agency coordination effort was launched to secure the market and assist the survivors.

“The troops, in conjunction with the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, other sister security agencies, the Borno State Government, and NEMA, responded promptly, securing and cordoning off the affected area to prevent further harm and ensure public safety,” the statement added.

The wounded were rushed to the General Hospital and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital. While 32 civilians were initially documented with varying degrees of trauma, the fatality count rose as medical teams struggled to save the most severely injured.

“Two of the injured civilians were later confirmed dead at the hospital, while two others are currently in critical condition,” Lt. Col. Uba noted, adding that “the remaining injured persons are stable and receiving appropriate medical care.”

The attack, occurring on Christmas Eve, has prompted a significant increase in the military’s footprint across the state capital. Despite the tragedy, the Army is working to ensure that the holiday period remains peaceful for the residents of Borno.

Assuring residents of their safety this festive season, Lt. Col. Uba said troops and other security agencies have intensified surveillance and security measures within Maiduguri and surrounding areas.