UN Condemns Borno Mosque Bombing, Seeks Protection Of Worshippers

The United Nationsn (UN) has condemned a deadly suicide bombing at a mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State capital, describing it as an attack on civilians and freedom of worship.

The explosion occurred on Wednesday evening, while worshippers were observing prayers, killing five people and injuring many others.

In reaction, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, in a statement issued on Thursday, said the attack was deeply distressing.

Fall said the timing and location of the attack made it particularly troubling. “The attack, which took place during evening prayers, led to the loss of lives and left scores injured,” he stated.

He said the UN stood with Borno State governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, in condemning the incident, which he described as a “heinous attack in a place of worship.”

Offering sympathy to those affected, Fall said, “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 the people of Borno State. I wish the injured a speedy recovery.”

The UN top official in Nigeria also supported calls by the Borno State government for tighter security, especially during the festive season. “I also echo the Borno Governor’s call for increased vigilance and enhanced security measures during this festive period and beyond,” he said.

Fall noted that the mosque attack was part of a broader pattern of violence recorded in Borno State in 2025, stressing that ordinary civilians continue to suffer the consequences. “This alleged suicide attack is yet another horrific reminder of the deadly toll of violent attacks in Borno State this year,” he said.

He recalled an earlier incident on September 5, when more than 50 civilians were killed in Darajamal, Bama local government area of the State, during an attack by suspected members of a non-state armed group.

According to Fall, violence in the state has taken multiple forms. “Other incidents have ranged from targeted attacks on communities to attacks on internally displaced persons camps, using improvised explosive devices, suicide bombings and other tactics targeting farmers, fishermen, travellers, and traders,” he added.

He urged all parties involved in the conflict to respect international laws and safeguard civilians.

“I reiterate my call to parties to the conflict to protect civilians, including those gathered in places of worship, as well as their property, and to adhere to international humanitarian and human rights law,” he said.

Fall, therefore, reaffirmed the UN’s continued support for affected communities in the region. “To complement Government efforts, the United Nations reaffirms its commitment to continue supporting people affected by the conflict in north-east Nigeria,” he stated.