Following a devastating bomb explosion at Gamboru Market in Maiduguri on Wednesday, Vice President Kashim Shettima reassured residents of Borno State and Nigerians of the Federal Government's unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property. Shettima visited survivors receiving treatment at the Muhammadu Buhari Trauma Centre, where he extended President Bola Tinubu's and the Federal Government's condolences to the victims and their families. Describing the attack as senseless and heartbreaking, the Vice President reiterated the government's determination to eradicate insecurity in Borno State and across the country, stating that the violence would soon be brought to an end by the grace of God. He also commended Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum for his continuous efforts in addressing security and humanitarian challenges, pledging deeper collaboration from the Federal Government to achieve lasting peace.

The Chief Medical Director of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital provided an update to the Vice President, confirming that 14 patients were admitted after the blast. Tragically, one patient succumbed to their injuries shortly after arrival, while seven victims remain hospitalized, with one in critical condition in the intensive care unit. Five other individuals have been treated and discharged.

Concurrently, the Northern Senators Forum (NSF) voiced profound sorrow over the bomb explosion, which occurred during evening prayers at a mosque in Maiduguri. Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, Chairman of the forum, issued a statement conveying heartfelt condolences to the victims' families, affected worshippers, and the wider Maiduguri community. The senators characterized the incident as a painful tragedy, expressing solidarity with the Borno State government and its people during this difficult period. They mourned the lives lost and offered prayers for the swift and complete recovery of those undergoing medical treatment. The Northern Senators Forum lauded the police and other security agencies for their efforts and appealed to residents to maintain cooperation with security operatives to enhance the protection of places of worship and other public areas.

Internationally, the United Nations also expressed deep sadness over the suspected suicide bomb attack. UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric announced in New York that the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Mohamed Fall, had issued a statement conveying his sincere condolences to the families of those killed, as well as to the Government and people of Borno State, wishing the injured a speedy recovery. Fall joined Governor Babagana Zulum in vehemently condemning the "heinous attack" on a place of worship and echoed the Governor's call for heightened vigilance and strengthened security measures, particularly during the festive season and beyond. The UN highlighted that this attack is part of a broader pattern of violence in north-east Nigeria, referencing a September 5 incident where over 50 civilians were killed by suspected non-state armed groups in Darajamal, Bama Local Government Area. Other incidents have included targeted attacks on communities and internally-displaced persons' camps, often utilizing improvised explosive devices, suicide bombings, and tactics against farmers, fishermen, travelers, and traders. Mr. Fall reiterated his plea to all parties involved in the conflict to protect civilians, including those gathered in places of worship, and their property, urging adherence to their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law. The United Nations reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to continue supporting people affected by the ongoing conflict in north-east Nigeria.