THE Nigerian military has announced a major breakthrough in its counter-terrorism operations in the North East with the identification of Shariff Umar as the alleged principal coordinator of a suicide bombing network responsible for recent attacks and attempted attacks in the region.
According to Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), the development followed intelligence-led cordon-and-search operations carried out in the Kalmari area of Maiduguri on 31 December 2025.
During the operation, 14 suspects linked to suicide bombing activities were arrested, leading to further investigations that exposed the structure and operational linkages of the terror cell.
OPHK disclosed that one of the suspects currently in custody, Ibrahim Muhammad, identified Shariff Umar, also known as “Yusuf”, as the ringleader of the network. Investigators said Umar was responsible for recruiting, preparing and dispatching suicide bombers to designated targets, as well as coordinating logistics and the supply of Improvised Explosive Device (IED) components.
The military further revealed that Shariff Umar allegedly coordinated the suicide bombing attack at the Gamboru Market Mosque on 24 December 2025.
He was also linked to a foiled suicide bombing attempt in Damaturu, where he reportedly handed over IED components to a would-be attacker in Maiduguri.
Investigations also established links between the suspect and members of his household.
His wife, Yagana Modu, was identified as being connected to the network, while his stepdaughter, Amina, reportedly confirmed that she had previously seen the suspect bomber within their residence.
These findings, the military said, exposed the concealment tactics often used by terrorist facilitators within communities.
All arrested suspects remain in custody and are undergoing intensive investigations aimed at dismantling the entire network, identifying additional collaborators and recovering any remaining explosives or logistical assets.
OPHK reiterated the importance of cooperation between security forces and civilians, noting that terrorist groups often rely on silence and fear within communities to operate.
The military urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons or activities to security agencies.
The military stressed that sustained collaboration and trust between troops and local communities are vital to eliminating terrorism and restoring lasting peace in the North East.
The statement was signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, and dated 3 January 2026.
