The Nigerian military says it has identified one Shariff Umar as the alleged principal coordinator of a suicide bombing network operating in the North-East, following intelligence-led operations that led to multiple arrests in Maiduguri.
In a statement issued on Saturday, January 3, 2026, by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, it was said that the breakthrough came after cordon-and-search operations conducted on December 31, 2025, in the Kalmari area of Maiduguri.
According to the military, 14 suspects linked to suicide bombing activities were arrested during the operation.
Subsequent investigations, OPHK said, helped security forces establish the structure, roles, and operational connections of the terror cell.
A suspect currently in custody, identified as Ibrahim Muhammad, reportedly named Umar, also known as Yusuf, as the ringleader responsible for coordinating suicide bombing activities in the region.
Military authorities alleged that Umar was involved in recruiting and directing bombers, as well as coordinating logistics related to attacks and attempted attacks.
Investigators further linked him to the suicide bombing at the Gamboru Market Mosque on December 24, 2025, and to a foiled attack in Damaturu.
The investigation also uncovered alleged links involving members of Umar’s household, which the military said helped expose how terror suspects conceal activities within communities.
“All suspects remain in custody and are undergoing intensive investigations aimed at dismantling the entire network, identifying additional collaborators, and recovering any remaining materials,” he said.
OPHK emphasized that the development highlights the importance of cooperation between security agencies and local communities, noting that terrorist networks often rely on secrecy and fear to operate.
The military urged members of the public to remain vigilant and to report suspicious movements or activities to security agencies, stressing that timely information can help prevent attacks and save lives.
