Boko Haram Attacks: ‘Nigerian Soldiers Withdrew From Borno Towns Over Shortage Of Ammunition’ — Senator Ndume Laments

Former Senate Leader, Ali Ndume, has raised the alarm over what he described as critical ammunition shortages among Nigerian troops, warning that soldiers are increasingly being overwhelmed by insurgents in parts of Borno State.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, the lawmaker cautioned that Nigeria risks losing territories in the North-East if urgent steps are not taken to strengthen military capacity, particularly in frontline communities.

Ndume, who represents Borno South Senatorial District, said troops were recently forced to withdraw from Ngoshe and Pulka communities following sustained attacks by insurgents due to inadequate ammunition.

“I am calling on the federal government to double its efforts in equipping the Army with sophisticated arms and ammunition,” Ndume said.

“I gathered that our soldiers lacked adequate ammunition and had to withdraw from Ngoshe and Pulka because they were overwhelmed. It was only after reinforcements arrived that they reclaimed the areas. Nothing was left standing in both communities by the attackers,” he added.

The senator’s remarks highlight growing concerns over the operational readiness of troops deployed in the insurgency-hit region, where communities continue to face repeated attacks.

Describing the aftermath of the attacks, Ndume painted a grim picture of destruction in the affected areas.

“I have seen Ngoshe, and it is beyond description. The destruction is total—reduced to ground zero, with nothing left except a small mosque.

“The people are resilient, and the governor is determined to rebuild. There is an urgent need for federal government intervention,” he said.

Ndume stressed that without immediate reinforcement in terms of arms, ammunition, and logistical support, the military may struggle to sustain gains against insurgents, leaving vulnerable communities exposed to further devastation.

Earlier, SaharaReporters reported that no fewer than 23 persons were confirmed dead, while 108 others sustained varying degrees of injuries following multiple bomb explosions that rocked Maiduguri last Monday evening.

The coordinated attacks occurred at three separate locations across the city, throwing residents into panic and prompting a swift response from security agencies and emergency services.

A statement issued by the Borno State Police Command,  Nahum Daso last week Tuesday confirmed the casualty figures.

He revealed that investigations were ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the attacks.

The statement read, “Following the devastating suspected suicide IED explosions that occurred at about 7:24pm on March 16, 2026, at (1) Maiduguri Monday Market, (2) University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital gate, and (3) Post Office Flyover area, Maiduguri.”

“Preliminary investigation reveals that the incidents were carried out by suspected suicide bombers. Regrettably, 23 persons lost their lives, while 108 others sustained varying degrees of injuries.”

Daso added that security agencies responded swiftly to contain the situation and prevent further harm.

“The scenes were immediately secured, cordoned off, and subjected to thorough sweep operations by Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit Base 13 Maiduguri to rule out the presence of any additional threats,” he added.

He further noted that a combined team of police tactical units, the military, and other security operatives had been deployed to the affected areas.

Victims of the explosions were promptly evacuated by emergency responders, including the National Emergency Management Agency and the State Emergency Management Agency, to nearby medical facilities where they are currently receiving treatment.

“He commiserated with victims and their families, while assuring the public of the command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property,” he said.

Authorities also reassured residents that calm has returned to the city.

“The Borno State Police Command wishes to state that normalcy has been fully restored in the affected areas.”

“Meanwhile, security operatives have heightened their presence and surveillance across Maiduguri and its environs to prevent any further occurrences,” he added.

Last week Monday, SaharaReporters reported that there was tension in the capital of Borno State, Maiduguri,  going by a series of explosions, one of which occurred at the entrance of the Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, causing panic and fear across the city.

SaharaReporters gathered that the first explosion occurred around 7pm last Monday, during iftar, the evening meal that marks the breaking of the Ramadan fast.

In a video obtained by SaharaReporters, some security personnel were seen using torchlights to inspect a car parked at the entrance of a gate.(SaharaReporters)