Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in Lagos to brief President Bola Tinubu on the security situation in Maiduguri, following a recent wave of deadly attacks in Borno State.
The visit comes days after coordinated suicide bombings in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, which left at least 23 people dead and more than 100 others injured. The incident has once again raised concerns about the state of security in Nigeria’s North-East region.
According to a post shared on Shettima’s verified X account on Sunday, his trip to Maiduguri was directed by the President. The Vice President said he visited affected communities and families to assess the situation firsthand and offer support.
He is expected to present his findings to the President during the meeting in Lagos, including details of the attacks, the level of damage, and the response by security agencies on the ground.
“The Vice President will brief the President on the outcome of his visit to Maiduguri to see families and communities affected by the tragic incidents, as well as his on-the-spot assessment,” the statement said.
The bombings took place last Monday evening at about 7:02 p.m. in three busy locations across Maiduguri. The attackers struck almost at the same time, causing panic and confusion among residents.
The affected locations included the popular Monday Market, a major trading hub in the city, the Post Office Flyover area, and a security post near the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital. These areas are usually crowded, making the impact of the explosions more severe.
Police authorities confirmed that 23 people lost their lives, while 108 others suffered injuries of varying degrees. Victims were rushed to nearby hospitals, where medical workers have been attending to them.
Security agencies have since increased patrols in and around Maiduguri, while investigations are ongoing to identify those responsible for the attacks. Although no group has officially claimed responsibility, suspicion has fallen on insurgent groups that have been active in the region for years.
Borno State has long been at the centre of Nigeria’s fight against insurgency. The region has experienced repeated attacks by extremist groups, leading to loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of thousands of residents.
Maiduguri, as the state capital, has often been a target due to its strategic importance. Over the years, the city has seen improvements in security, with fewer large-scale attacks compared to the peak of the insurgency. However, recent incidents suggest that threats still remain.
The Vice President’s visit is part of ongoing efforts by the federal government to respond to security challenges and reassure affected communities. During his time in Maiduguri, Shettima met with victims, local leaders, and security officials to better understand the situation.
Following his meeting with the President, Shettima is also expected to lead a group of serving governors on a Sallah homage. This is a traditional visit that takes place during the Muslim festive period, where leaders pay respect and exchange greetings.
The timing of the attacks, close to a festive period, has added to public concern. Many residents fear that such incidents could disrupt normal activities and celebrations, especially in areas already affected by insecurity.
Nigeria has been battling insurgency in the North-East for over a decade. While the military has made progress in reclaiming territory and weakening some groups, attacks have continued in different forms, including bombings, raids, and kidnappings.
In recent years, there has been a shift in tactics, with attackers targeting crowded public places to cause maximum casualties and spread fear among the population.
The federal government has repeatedly assured citizens of its commitment to ending insecurity across the country. Efforts have included military operations, community engagement, and support for victims of violence.
However, many Nigerians continue to express concern about safety, especially in regions that have experienced repeated attacks. There are also calls for more proactive measures to prevent such incidents rather than just responding after they occur.
As Shettima briefs the President, attention will likely focus on the next steps to strengthen security in Borno State and prevent future attacks. This may include increased deployment of security personnel, better surveillance, and closer cooperation with local communities.
For residents of Maiduguri, the immediate concern remains recovery and healing. Families who lost loved ones are mourning, while those injured continue to receive treatment.