U.S. President Donald Trump has sparked intense reactions globally and within Nigeria after issuing a strongly worded criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the country’s worsening security situation following deadly attacks in Maiduguri.
At least 23 people were killed and more than 100 others injured in coordinated explosions late Monday targeting crowded civilian locations, including areas around the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, the popular Monday Market, and the Post Office flyover.
Authorities described the incidents as suspected suicide bombings, although no group has officially claimed responsibility.
Security analysts say the attacks bear the hallmarks of extremist groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province, which have carried out similar assaults in Nigeria’s northeast for over a decade.
Reacting via his official account on X, Trump described the situation as a “TOTAL DISASTER,” blaming what he termed a lack of leadership and weak border control. He criticised Tinubu’s presence in the United Kingdom during the crisis and urged Keir Starmer to ensure the Nigerian leader returns home immediately.
“GO HOME IMMEDIATELY,” Trump wrote, adding that a leader should be “on the ground with the military and the people” during a national emergency rather than attending engagements abroad.
He further called on Nigerian authorities to prioritise security, urging them to “close the borders, find the terrorists, and protect your citizens,” while describing Nigeria as “a great country with wonderful people” that deserves stronger leadership.
The attacks in Maiduguri shattered a period of relative calm in the region and came just days after reports of renewed insurgent activity, including assaults on military positions.
The Nigerian Armed Forces confirmed that troops have intensified operations in the area, repelling follow-up threats and pursuing suspects linked to the હુમings. Authorities have also heightened security alerts across Borno State and neighbouring regions.
State officials and northern leaders condemned the attacks, describing them as “heinous” and “barbaric,” while extending condolences to victims’ families. Emergency responders continue to treat the injured as investigations into the explosions remain ongoing.
President Tinubu’s trip to the United Kingdom was aimed at strengthening diplomatic and economic ties, but the timing has drawn criticism domestically amid the unfolding tragedy. Neither the Nigerian presidency nor British officials have issued an official response to Trump’s remarks as of the time of filing this report.
The resurgence of attacks underscores the persistent security challenges in Nigeria’s northeast despite ongoing counter-terrorism operations, including Operation Hadin Kai.
As the situation develops, authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, while Nigerians continue to demand stronger and more decisive action against insurgent networks.