The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors on Tuesday condemned the bomb blast that reportedly claimed over 20 lives and left 108 injured in Maiduguri, Borno State on Monday night.
A statement by NARD President, Dr. Mohammad Usman Suleiman, reads: “The Leadership of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) received with profound shock, deep sadness, and heavy hearts the disturbing news of the multiple bomb explosions that rocked the city of Maiduguri, Borno State, particularly the most recent blast that occurred on the evening of Monday, 16th March 2026. This tragic incident has claimed several innocent lives and left many others with grievous injuries, who are currently receiving treatment across various health facilities.
Even more heartbreaking is the fact that one of these explosions occurred within the premises of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), the largest tertiary health institution in North-Eastern Nigeria. Hospitals are sacred spaces meant for healing, hope, and the preservation of life. To witness such a place targeted by acts of violence is both painful and unacceptable. It represents a direct attack not only on healthcare institutions but also on humanity itself.
The Leadership of NARD strongly condemns this barbaric and senseless act in the strongest possible terms. No society can progress when places of healing become scenes of tragedy.
We are however relieved to report that none of our members at UMTH Maiduguri were physically harmed in this unfortunate incident.
Despite the fear, shock, and proximity of the scene of the explosion to the Trauma Centre, our courageous resident doctors, alongside medical/dental students and other healthcare workers, rose above the moment with remarkable bravery and professionalism. They immediately swung into action, attending to the influx of mass casualties with unwavering commitment and compassion. Their response in the face of danger reflects the highest ideals of the medical profession — a selfless dedication to saving lives even under the most difficult circumstances.
The Leadership of NARD sincerely commends and appreciates the management of UMTH Maiduguri for their swift coordination and leadership during this crisis. We also deeply acknowledge the tireless efforts and sacrifice of the members of ARD UMTH, medical/dental students, and other hospital staffs who stood firm in their duty to care for the injured. Their courage, resilience, and humanity embody the noble spirit of medicine and remain a source of pride to our great association.
On behalf of all NARDITES nationwide, the leadership of NARD ably led by Dr. Mohammad Usman Suleiman, commiserates deeply with the entire Congress of ARD UMTH, the management and staff of UMTH, and the good people and Government of Borno State over this tragic and painful incident.
At this difficult moment, we call on the Federal Government and all relevant security agencies to urgently strengthen security architecture around healthcare facilities, especially in conflict-prone areas. Hospitals and healthcare workers must be protected at all times. We therefore strongly advocate for improved surveillance, tighter security presence, and the strategic deployment of Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units around the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital and other vulnerable locations to prevent future occurrences and safeguard the lives of healthcare workers and patients alike.
Our thoughts and prayers remain with all those affected by this devastating tragedy. We pray to the Almighty God to grant quick and complete healing to the injured patients currently receiving treatment. We also pray that the souls of those who lost their lives in this unfortunate incident find eternal rest, and that Almighty God grants their families, friends, and loved ones the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
May peace, safety, and healing return to Maiduguri and to our dear nation.”
Meanwhile, the Borno State Police Command has confirmed 23 persons dead and 108 injured at from the multiple explosions that occurred on Monday in Maiduguri, the state capital.
The police said on Tuesday that suspected suicide bombers allegedly carried out the suicide attacks at 7:24pm on Monday.
Nahum Daso, an Assistant Superintendent of Police and the command’s spokesperson, said in a statement that preliminary investigations indicated that the explosions were carried out using improvised explosive devices (IEDs) by suspected suicide bombers.
Daso said that the incidents were carried out at the Maiduguri Central Market, popularly known as Monday Market, University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital gate, and Post Office Flyover area of the town.
According to him, a combined team of Police Tactical Units, military personnel, and other joint security operatives was swiftly deployed to the affected areas.
The spokesperson said that the scenes were immediately secured and cordoned off, while the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit conducted thorough sweep operations to ensure no additional threats remained.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, visited the scenes for an on-the-spot assessment and commiserated with victims and their families.
Daso assured residents of the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
The spokesperson said that victims were evacuated by emergency responders, including the National Emergency Management Agency and Borno State Emergency Management Agency, to medical facilities for treatment.
He said normalcy had been restored in the affected areas, while security had been heightened across the metropolis to forestall further incidents.
The Police Public Relations Officer urged residents to remain calm and vigilant and report any suspicious movements or objects to security agencies.
Daso reiterated the command’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in the state.
