The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed that the explosion near the Mogadishu Army Cantonment in Abuja on Monday was caused by a suicide bomber attempting to sneak into the military barracks. According to NEMA, the incident occurred around 1:47 pm along the Mararaba-Nyanya Expressway, near a bus stop opposite the Mogadishu Cantonment, also known as Abacha Barracks. The bomber, who was carrying an improvised explosive device (IED), alighted from a Volkswagen Golf vehicle under the pedestrian bridge close to a military checkpoint. His suspicious movements attracted the attention of Military Police personnel on duty, who stopped him for identification. Moments later, the IED detonated, killing the bomber instantly and injuring one passerby. NEMA’s statement detailed the swift response: “At about 13:47hrs on Monday 26th May, 2025, NEMA AOO was alerted of an explosion in front of Abacha Barrack along Abuja-Keffi Road. AYA ERAB team was immediately activated to coordinate response. The team met stern looking security personnel at the already cordoned scene. Information gathered revealed that a Suicide Bomber attempted to sneak into the Barrack but met his Waterloo as the IED exploded on him while trying to negotiate an entry. The suicide bomber died instantly leaving one passerby injured. The EOD unit of the NPF evacuated the injured to National Hospital and took over the scene for further investigation; bringing the operation to a close at 17:29hrs. Stakeholders present included NEMA, Military, NPF, DSS, and FRSC.” The injured civilian was promptly evacuated by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit of the Nigeria Police Force to the National Hospital in Abuja for treatment. The scene was cordoned off for forensic analysis and further investigations by security agencies. A military source told The Nation newspaper that the bomber had attempted to enter the barracks after being dropped off by a vehicle but was stopped near a checkpoint where passengers often alight before taking tricycles inside the cantonment. The source said the bomber moved a few meters away after being stopped before the device exploded, injuring two others who are currently receiving treatment at the Defence Medical Centre. The Nigerian Army confirmed the explosion via a post on their official X page, stating, “Explosion at bus stop opposite Mogadishu Cantonment Abuja. Situation under control. Details later.” Efforts to reach the Army spokesperson for further comments were unsuccessful. Police spokeswoman Josephine Adeh said the area was swiftly secured by the EOD unit to ensure the safety of commuters and residents, and a comprehensive investigation, including forensic analysis, has commenced to determine the exact cause and nature of the explosion. This incident marks another security challenge near the nation’s capital, following previous bombings in the region. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and vigilant as investigations continue

The Nigerian Army confirmed an explosion near the Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja on Monday afternoon. In a brief statement posted on its official X handle, the Army said, “Explosion at bus stop opposite Mogadishu Cantonment Abuja. Situation under control. Details later.” The blast occurred around 2:50 PM at a bus stop adjacent to the barracks, which houses personnel from the Air Force and Navy. Eyewitnesses reported that the explosion was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) contained in a rubber can, and preliminary reports suggest the incident may have involved a suspected suicide bomber. One person was injured and promptly taken to the hospital, while another was reportedly killed at the scene. The Federal Capital Territory Police Command confirmed the explosion and said the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit was deployed to secure and examine the area. A perimeter was established to ensure the safety of commuters and residents. Police spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh urged the public to remain calm and vigilant, encouraging residents to report any suspicious activities. A comprehensive investigation, including forensic analysis, is ongoing to determine the exact cause and nature of the explosion. The incident has heightened security concerns in Abuja, especially around key military installations, but authorities have reassured the public that the situation is under control and that no further threats have been detected.