Security forces in the North-East have made a major breakthrough in their counter-terrorism efforts, officially identifying Shariff Umar as the mastermind and coordinator behind a resilient network of suicide bombers.
The naming of Umar follows a series of intensive intelligence-led operations by the Nigerian Army and the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai. Military sources confirm that Umar has been instrumental in recruiting and deploying “human IEDs” to target soft spots, including places of worship and military outposts across the Lake Chad Basin.
Umar’s identity was revealed following the arrest of two key suspects linked to the 24 December 24 2025, mosque bombing in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri. That attack, which occurred during evening prayers, killed five people and injured over 30 others.
Interrogations of the arrested suspects directly pointed to Shariff Umar as the individual who provided the explosive vests, logistics, and “spiritual guidance” for the attackers.
Intelligence suggests Umar operates from the rugged Mandara Mountains and the Sambisa Forest fringes, utilizing a sophisticated network of couriers to move explosives between cells.
Troops believe Umar is a high-ranking ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province) commander specializing in asymmetric warfare, specifically reviving the “female suicide bomber” tactic previously used by Boko Haram.
Recent Attacks Linked to the Network
The “Shariff Umar Network” is believed to be responsible for a surge in suicide missions over the last quarter of 2025:
| Date | Location | Target | Casualties |
| Dec 14, 2025 | Firgi (near Pulka) | Military Outpost | 5 Soldiers Killed |
| Dec 24, 2025 | Gamboru, Maiduguri | Mosque (Market) | 5 Killed, 32 Injured |
| Sept 5, 2025 | Darajamal, Bama | Civilian Community | 50+ Civilians Killed |
In response to these findings, the Nigerian military has launched a massive manhunt for Umar. The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified bombings in the Mandara Mountains, specifically targeting “caves and crevices” identified as Umar’s potential hideouts.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum and the UN Resident Coordinator, Mohamed Fall, have called for extreme vigilance across Borno State, warning that the network may attempt more “desperate acts” as its coordinator is squeezed.
While not officially announced, sources within the military indicate that a “significant bounty” is being considered for information leading to Umar’s capture or neutralization.
Security analysts note that the naming of a specific “coordinator” indicates a shift in military strategy, moving from general combat to targeted decapitation of terror leadership. By identifying Umar, the military aims to demoralize his followers and disrupt the highly centralized command structure required for suicide operations.
