The Borno State Police Command has deployed more than 1,000 police officers across Maiduguri and other key parts of the state to strengthen security ahead of the Christmas celebrations. This follows a deadly bomb explosion at a mosque in the state capital that killed five people and injured at least 35 others.
The explosion occurred at about 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the Al-Adum Mosque located in the busy Gamboru Market area of Maiduguri. Worshippers were gathered for the Maghrib (evening) prayers when the blast happened, causing panic and confusion in the area.
Many of the injured were rushed to hospitals in Maiduguri for treatment, while security operatives quickly cordoned off the area to prevent further harm and allow emergency responders to do their work.
Confirming the development on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Borno State Command, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Nahum Daso, said the attack made it necessary for the police to expand existing security arrangements.
“Although security arrangements were already in place, what happened yesterday has made it necessary to intensify our operations,” Daso said.
He explained that the police, working with other security and emergency agencies, had begun full deployment of personnel to places where large crowds are expected during the festive period.
“There will be full deployment of security personnel to churches, recreational centres, and other strategic locations where large gatherings are expected,” he added.
According to the police spokesperson, the operation is a joint effort involving the police, military, civil defence, and other relevant agencies. Officers have been stationed at major roads, public facilities, markets, worship centres, and known flashpoints across Maiduguri metropolis.
“It is a coordinated effort involving all relevant security agencies,” Daso said. “Over 1,000 police personnel have been deployed within the metropolis to ensure public safety.”
He urged residents to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities, assuring them that security agencies are working round the clock to protect lives and property.
Daso also stressed the importance of vigilance, especially during the Christmas period when people move around more frequently to attend religious services and social events.
“We advise members of the public to be mindful of their surroundings and make use of designated emergency response numbers,” he said. “Anyone observed acting suspiciously should be reported immediately.”
As part of the new security measures, the police have also introduced stricter screening at places of worship. Worshippers attending church services and mosque prayers will now undergo security checks before entry.
“As part of the preventive measures, individuals attending religious services will be properly screened, both in churches and mosques,” Daso explained.
The police say these measures are not meant to inconvenience residents but to ensure their safety during the festive season.
Meanwhile, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a “barbaric and inhumane act” that targeted innocent worshippers.
In a statement issued on Wednesday night by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, the governor expressed deep sorrow over the incident and called for increased vigilance, especially around religious centres.
“I am deeply saddened by the suicide attack at the Gamboru mosque during Maghrib prayers, which claimed five lives and injured 35 others,” Zulum said. “This act is utterly condemnable and a gross violation of the sanctity of a place of worship.”
The governor extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and prayed for the quick recovery of the injured. He also assured residents that the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, has taken additional steps to prevent further attacks during and after the Christmas period.
Borno State has for over a decade faced security challenges linked to insurgency and violent extremism. Although the situation has improved in recent years due to sustained military operations and community-based efforts, isolated attacks still occur, especially in crowded public places.
Maiduguri, the state capital, has gradually returned to normal life, with markets, schools, and businesses reopening. However, security agencies remain on high alert, particularly during festive periods when large gatherings are common.
Christmas celebrations in Borno often involve church services, family visits, and public events. The authorities say the increased police presence is aimed at ensuring that residents, including Christians and Muslims, can celebrate in peace.
Religious and community leaders in the state have also called for unity and cooperation with security agencies. They urged residents to avoid panic and to support efforts aimed at keeping the state safe.
Some residents of Maiduguri said the increased security presence had brought a sense of reassurance, even as they mourn the victims of the attack.
“We are sad about what happened at the mosque, but seeing security everywhere gives us hope that the government is serious about protecting us,” said a trader in Gamboru Market.
Others called on the authorities to sustain the security measures beyond the festive season, noting that long-term peace requires constant vigilance and community involvement.
As Christmas approaches, the Borno State Government and security agencies continue to appeal to residents to remain alert and to report anything unusual. They insist that security is a shared responsibility and that timely information can help save lives.