Tinubu Deploys Security Chiefs to Maiduguri After Fresh Terror Attacks

By Abah Margaret

Abuja, March 17, 2026 – President Bola Tinubu has ordered Nigeria’s top security officials to relocate to Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, to take direct charge of the security situation following a series of recent terrorist attacks.

In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, Tinubu described the incidents as “deeply troubling” and expressed condolences to families of those who lost their lives, while extending sympathy to the injured. He assured residents of the Federal Government’s support during this challenging period.

“These acts of terror are the final desperate attempts by criminal and terrorist elements to instil fear,” Tinubu said. “They are under constant pressure from our brave armed forces and security agencies operating across the country. We will continue to intensify our efforts against all criminal elements, wherever they may be.”

The President commended the courage of the Nigerian military, noting their successful repulsion of coordinated attacks on military positions in the state. He described Monday’s incidents as “desperate actions by evil-minded terrorist groups” but expressed confidence in the ability of security forces to contain the threat.

Tinubu revealed that he had approved additional operational support and equipment for security agencies following a recent security meeting with heads of intelligence and defence institutions. “This effort is already in progress. Additionally, I have directed security chiefs to move to Maiduguri to take charge of the situation, and I have instructed emergency agencies to provide proper care for the injured,” he said.

Reaffirming his administration’s stance against terrorism, the President stressed that no part of the country would serve as a safe haven for terrorists. “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 added.

The directive follows fresh security incidents in Maiduguri on Monday evening, when explosions occurred near the popular Monday Market and a security post at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital. An unspecified number of people were feared killed, while several others sustained injuries.

The explosions reportedly happened around 7:02 pm, hours after suspected Boko Haram members launched coordinated attacks on three military formations in different parts of Borno State. Confirming the incident, the Head of Operations of the Federal Fire Service in Borno State, Mohammed Kafaran, said personnel were deployed to assist with emergency response efforts.