In a swift response to the deadly explosions in Borno State, President Bola Tinubu, just before departing Abuja for the UK state visit, has directed the nation’s security leadership to relocate to Maiduguri.
The move follows a Monday night of terror where multiple blasts targeted civilians at the Monday Market and critical infrastructure near the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.
While embarking on a two-day state visit to the UK, the President released a statement via the Presidency condemning the “tragic events” and ensuring the public that top-level oversight is now on the ground to manage the crisis and restore order.
“The recent news from Maiduguri, Borno State, is profoundly upsetting. I mourn those who lost their lives, sympathise with the injured and stand in solidarity with the people of Borno during this challenging time,” Tinubu said.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and assured residents of unwavering federal backing during this crisis. The President emphasized that the assaults represent the last-gasp efforts of weakened criminal factions.
“I want to make it categorically clear that these acts of terror are the final desperate and frantic attempts by criminals and terrorist elements trying to instil and spread fear, as they are under constant pressure from our brave armed forces and security agencies operating in various theatres,” he stated.
Tinubu reaffirmed his government’s resolve to escalate the campaign against all forms of criminality nationwide.
“We will continue to intensify our efforts against all criminal elements, wherever they may be,” he declared. He also praised the bravery of Nigerian troops, noting their success in thwarting earlier coordinated strikes.
“I must commend the courage and fighting spirit of our patriotic troops who successfully repelled the coordinated attacks by these terrorists on military positions in the state,” the President added.
Describing Monday’s explosions as futile aggression from malicious groups, Tinubu voiced strong confidence in the security apparatus.
“The Monday attacks were desperate acts of the evil-minded terrorist groups. Our gallant military and civilian task forces will curtail and put them down.”
The President revealed that he had recently greenlit extra logistical aid and advanced gear for the security services after consultations with intelligence and defence leaders.
“This effort is already in progress. Additionally, I have directed security chiefs to move to Maiduguri to take charge of the situation. I have also directed the emergency agencies to provide proper care for the injured,” Tinubu said.
Reiterating a firm zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism, he insisted that no region would offer refuge to such elements.
“There is no place in Nigeria where terrorists will find safety. We will locate them, confront them, and completely defeat them. Nigeria will not succumb to fear,” he vowed.
The Monday incidents unfolded around 7:02 pm, shortly after suspected Boko Haram militants carried out synchronized raids on three military sites across Borno State
. An undetermined number of individuals perished in the blasts, with many more wounded.
The Head of Operations for the Federal Fire Service in the state, Mohammed Kafaran, confirmed that responders were mobilized to the affected zones to support rescue and relief operations.
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