In the wake of a devastating bomb explosion, Vice President Kashim Shettima has issued a firm assurance to the people of Borno State and Nigeria, pledging the Federal Government's unwavering commitment to ending the cycle of violence. The attack, which struck Gamboru Market in Maiduguri on Wednesday, has drawn national condemnation and sympathy visits from top government officials.
Shettima's Visit and Assurance to Victims
On Friday, December 27, 2025, Vice President Kashim Shettima, accompanied by Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, visited survivors receiving treatment at the Muhammadu Buhari Trauma Centre in Maiduguri. The visit was to personally convey the sympathy of President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Government to those affected by what Shettima described as a senseless and heartbreaking attack.
During the visit, Shettima reinforced the government's constitutional duty to protect citizens. "We are here on behalf of the president to sympathise with the victims and to reassure the good people of Borno State, and indeed the entire nation, that the government remains unwavering in its commitment to secure lives and property," he stated. He expressed a strong belief that, "By the grace of God, this violence will soon be brought to an end."
The Vice President also praised Governor Zulum for his persistent efforts in tackling the region's security and humanitarian crises, promising enhanced collaboration between the state and federal authorities to achieve lasting peace.
Casualty Figures and Medical Response
A briefing from the Chief Medical Director of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital provided clarity on the human cost of the blast. The hospital initially admitted 14 patients from the incident. Tragically, one victim passed away shortly after arrival. As of the Vice President's visit, the medical status of the survivors was as follows:
- Seven victims remained on admission.
- One patient was in critical condition in the intensive care unit.
- Five others had been treated and discharged.
Northern Senators Forum Expresses Solidarity
Adding to the national response, the Northern Senators Forum (NSF) voiced its profound sorrow over the bombing. In a statement, the forum's Chairman, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar'Adua, extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the affected worshippers, and the broader Maiduguri community.
The senators labelled the incident a painful tragedy and declared their solidarity with the Borno State government and its people during this difficult time. The forum mourned the lives lost and offered prayers for the swift recovery of the injured.
Commending the police and other security agencies for their response, the Northern Senators Forum also made a crucial appeal to residents. They urged continued cooperation with security operatives to improve the protection of places of worship and other public spaces vulnerable to such attacks.
The coordinated responses from both the executive and legislative arms highlight the national urgency placed on addressing the security challenges in Borno State and restoring safety to the region.
