Abuja. March 17, 2026 – President Bola Tinubu has directed the service chiefs to relocate to Maiduguri, Borno State capital, to take charge in the aftermath of the multiple bomb attacks that rocked the town on Monday.
The explosions resulted to the loss of over 20 lives, while more than 100 persons were injured.
Tinubu gave the directive on Tuesday before embarking on state visit to the United Kingdom.
According to a statement issued by the State House, the president expressed deep sorrow over the attacks, mourning those killed and sympathising with the injured.
He assured residents in Borno State of the federal government’s solidarity, describing the incidents as desperate and frantic attempts by terrorists under sustained pressure from Nigerian security forces.
The statement reads in parts: “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.”
“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.
“We will continue to intensify our efforts against all criminal elements, wherever they may be.
“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 Monday attacks were desperate acts of the evil-minded terrorist groups. Our gallant military and civilian task forces will curtail and put them down.
“Just last weekend, during a security meeting with leaders of security and intelligence agencies, I approved additional equipment and operational support to enhance their capabilities. 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. 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.”
