The Nigerian Army has uncovered a suicide bombing network responsible for the December 24, 2025 attack at the Gamboru Market Mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State.
The attack, which occurred during prayers, involved a bomber identified as Adamu who detonated a suicide vest and died at the scene.
The army disclosed that the operation was coordinated by Shariff Umar, also known as ‘Yusuf,’ who has been identified as the leader of the terror network.
Sani Uba, Lieutenant Colonel and spokesman of Operation Hadin Kai, said the breakthrough followed intelligence-led cordon-and-search operations conducted on December 31, 2025.
He said the operation was carried out in the Kalmari area of Maiduguri, leading to the arrest of 14 suspects linked to the network.
According to the army, investigations established the structure, roles, and operational links of the cell behind recent suicide attacks and attempted attacks in the North East.
A suspected suicide bomber in custody, Ibrahim Muhammad, identified Shariff Umar as the coordinator responsible for recruiting, preparing, and dispatching suicide bombers.
Investigators said Umar also coordinated logistics and supplied improvised explosive device components used in the attacks.
The army further linked Umar to a foiled suicide bombing attempt in Damaturu, where he allegedly handed over IED components to an intended bomber in Maiduguri.
Investigations revealed the involvement of Umar’s wife, Yagana Modu, while his stepdaughter, Amina, confirmed seeing a suspected bomber at their residence.
The army said the findings exposed how terrorist facilitators exploit family and community ties to conceal operations.
All suspects remain in custody as investigations continue to dismantle the network, identify collaborators, and recover remaining explosives.
Operation Hadin Kai urged residents to report suspicious persons or activities, noting that community cooperation is critical to preventing attacks and restoring peace in the region.
