By Ayo Ayodele
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has condemned the recent suicide bomb explosions in Maiduguri, describing the attacks as “desperate and frantic attempts” by terrorists under pressure from Nigerian security forces.
In a statement issued on March 17, 2026, the President expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended sympathy to those injured, while assuring residents of Borno State of the Federal Government’s solidarity during the crisis.
Tinubu maintained that the attacks were carried out by weakened terrorist elements seeking to instil fear, insisting that ongoing military operations have significantly constrained their activities. He commended the armed forces and security agencies for their bravery, particularly for repelling coordinated assaults on military positions in the state.
“The Monday attacks were desperate acts of evil-minded groups,” the President stated, adding that Nigeria’s military and civilian task forces remain resolute in confronting and eliminating such threats.
The President revealed that he recently approved additional equipment and operational support for security agencies following a high-level meeting with intelligence chiefs. He noted that the deployment of these resources is already underway to strengthen counter-terrorism efforts.
As part of immediate measures, Tinubu directed security chiefs to relocate to Maiduguri to oversee operations, while also instructing emergency response agencies to ensure adequate medical care for victims.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to national security, the President declared that no part of Nigeria would serve as a safe haven for terrorists.
“We will locate them, confront them, and completely defeat them. Nigeria will not succumb to fear,” he said.