Security Forces Foil Devastating Terror Attack at Maiduguri Teaching Hospital

MAIDUGURI – New details have surfaced regarding a thwarted terror plot at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), where security personnel intercepted three teenagers attempting to detonate explosives concealed within a food flask.

The incident, which occurred on the evening of March 16, resulted in a dual explosion at the hospital’s entrance after the assailants were denied access to the main building. While a specific casualty count for the hospital blast is still being finalized, the coordinated attacks across the city that day left at least 23 people dead and 108 others injured.

Vigilance Prevents a Massacre

According to eyewitness accounts and security reports, the suspects—estimated to be between 13 and 14 years old—approached the facility in a commercial tricycle (Keke Napep). They attempted to disguise themselves as relatives delivering meals to patients by carrying a food flask.

Ali Musa, a security officer on duty during the attack, recounted the moment the situation escalated:

"They drove in at full speed, attempting to breach protocol. When I intercepted them and ordered a reversal, one of the suspects threw the food flask at me. I kicked it away just before it detonated."

The initial blast caused significant injuries to Musa and his colleague, who suffered a broken leg. A second explosion occurred shortly after in the same vicinity as the attackers attempted to flee.

Coordinated Terror Wave

The hospital encounter coincided with a separate blast at the Monday Market, which occurred around 7:05 PM the same day. Investigators believe the market attack was carried out by a lone suicide bomber wearing an explosive vest.

Witnesses at the market described a scene of chaos, noting that the primary suspect’s body was found "completely destroyed," indicating they were the direct carrier of the device.

Federal Government Response

In light of the escalating violence, President Bola Tinubu has issued a stern directive to Nigeria’s top military brass. Following the President’s order to relocate operations to Borno State, the following officials arrived in Maiduguri on Wednesday, March 18:

• Chief of Defence Staff: Olufemi Oluyede

• Chief of Army Staff: Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu

The military leadership is expected to oversee a renewed offensive to stabilize the region and prevent further incursions into public infrastructure.