The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, has urged the Nigerian military to adopt a more proactive approach in tackling terrorism following deadly bombings in Maiduguri.

Abubakar made the call on Wednesday evening while declaring Friday as Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

His remarks come after twin bomb attacks on Monday in Maiduguri, Borno State, which left at least 23 people dead and over 100 others injured. The explosions occurred at a local market, the gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and the Post Office flyover.

Condemning the attacks, the Sultan called on security forces to take the fight directly to terrorist strongholds rather than waiting to respond after incidents occur.

“Take the war to the terrorists where they are. Don’t wait for them to strike before defending or finding remedies. This you must do so that, as a nation of great people, we can have peace in our country,” he said.

He described the bombings as un-Islamic, stressing that such acts of violence have no basis in the teachings of Islam.

The Sultan also urged the government to demonstrate strong political will in ensuring the safety of all citizens, regardless of religion or ethnicity.

“The government should summon the political willpower required to provide effective security and safety for all people, to stamp out these criminal elements across the country,” he added.

Abubakar further appealed to Nigerians to promote peace, unity, and coexistence, noting that national development depends on a secure and harmonious society.