Security Alert in Borno State After Evening Blasts in Maiduguri

Residents of Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State in Nigeria, were thrown into panic on Monday evening, March 16, 2026, after multiple explosions were reported in parts of the city. The blasts occurred around 7 p.m., with loud sounds heard near the busy Monday Market area and close to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital. Eyewitnesses said residents and traders fled the area in fear as emergency responders rushed to the scene.

Security sources reported that several people were injured in the explosions and were quickly evacuated to nearby medical facilities for treatment. Authorities have yet to release an official casualty figure, but ambulances and security personnel were seen moving victims from the affected areas. Security operatives also cordoned off parts of the city as investigations and rescue efforts continued late into the evening.

The governor of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum, condemned the attack and called on residents to remain calm and vigilant while security agencies work to restore normalcy. Maiduguri has been a major center of insurgency activities over the years, with extremist groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province known to operate in the region. Authorities say investigations are ongoing to determine those responsible for the explosions.