The United Nations has condemned a suicide bomb attack at a mosque in the Gamboru Market area of Maiduguri, Borno State, which claimed several lives and left many worshippers injured.
The attack reportedly occurred on Wednesday evening during prayers, raising fresh concerns over persistent insecurity in Nigeria’s North-East.
In a statement issued on Christmas Day, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, said he was deeply saddened by the incident, describing it as a grave assault on civilians and freedom of worship.
“I am deeply saddened by yesterday evening’s reported loss of life in a mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, in Borno State, following a suspected suicide bombing attack,” Fall said. “The attack, which took place during evening prayers, led to the loss of lives and left scores injured.”
Fall said he joined the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, in strongly condemning what he described as a “heinous attack” on a place of worship.
“On behalf of the United Nations in Nigeria, I convey my heartfelt condolences to the families of those who were killed, and to the Government and people of Borno State. I wish the injured a speedy recovery,” he said.
The UN official also echoed Governor Zulum’s call for increased vigilance and enhanced security measures during the festive season and beyond.
“I also echo the Borno Governor’s call for increased vigilance and enhanced security measures during this festive period and beyond,” Fall stated.
He noted that the attack was part of a troubling pattern of violent incidents in Borno State in 2025, stressing that civilians continue to bear the brunt of the conflict.
“This alleged suicide attack is yet another horrific reminder of the deadly toll of violent attacks in Borno State this year,” he said.
Fall recalled that on September 5, more than 50 civilians were killed in Darajamal, Bama Local Government Area, during an attack by suspected members of a non-state armed group. He added that other incidents have included attacks on communities and internally displaced persons’ camps, using improvised explosive devices, suicide bombings and other tactics targeting farmers, fishermen, travellers and traders.
Reaffirming the UN’s position, Fall urged all parties involved in the conflict to prioritise the protection of civilians and respect international humanitarian and human rights law.
“I reiterate my call to parties to the conflict to protect civilians, including those gathered in places of worship, as well as their property,” he said.
He assured that the United Nations would continue to support efforts to address the humanitarian impact of the conflict and assist people affected by violence in north-east Nigeria.
