December 25, 2025 | News | SUNTV Global Channel
The United Nations has strongly condemned the suicide bomb attack on a mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, describing it as a brutal assault on civilians and freedom of worship.
The deadly incident, which occurred on Wednesday evening during prayers, claimed several lives and left scores of worshippers injured, once again highlighting the persistent security challenges in Nigeria’s North-East.
Reacting to the attack, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, said he was deeply saddened by the loss of lives caused by what was reported to be a suicide bombing inside a place 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 in a statement issued on Christmas Day.
He described the incident as a grave violation of international humanitarian principles, stressing that civilians continue to pay the heaviest price in the protracted conflict in Borno State.
“The attack, which took place during evening prayers, led to the loss of lives and left scores injured,” he noted.
Fall said he joined Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, in condemning what he termed a “heinous attack” carried out in a sacred 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 the people of Borno State. I also wish the injured a speedy recovery,” he stated.
The UN official also echoed Governor Zulum’s call for heightened security and vigilance, especially during the festive season.
“I echo the Borno Governor’s call for increased vigilance and enhanced security measures during this festive period and beyond,” Fall said.
He noted that the Gamboru Market attack fits into a worrying pattern of violent incidents recorded across Borno State in 2025, with civilians repeatedly targeted by non-state armed groups.
“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 when suspected insurgents attacked Darajamal community in Bama Local Government Area, alongside several other deadly incidents involving attacks on communities and internally displaced persons’ camps.
“Other incidents have ranged from targeted attacks on communities to assaults on IDP camps, using improvised explosive devices, suicide bombings and other tactics against farmers, fishermen, travelers and traders,” he added.
Reaffirming the UN’s stance, Fall called on all parties involved in the conflict to prioritise the protection of civilians and respect international humanitarian and human rights laws.
“I reiterate my call to all 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 humanitarian and recovery efforts 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,” Fall concluded.
— SUNTV Global Channel
