News imageFocus on Africa, Deadly blasts hit north-eastern Nigerian city

Focus on Africa

Deadly blasts hit north-eastern Nigerian city

19 March 2026

23 minutes

Available for over a year

At least 23 people were killed and over 100 injured in multiple explosions in Maiduguri, north-eastern Nigeria, a long-time insurgency hotspot. We examine the effect of the attack on traumatised residents and how they are coping. In response, the Nigerian Army says its troops killed three senior Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) commanders and more than 80 other militants in a major operation in the north-east.

Meanwhile, the percentage of female players registered with the International Chess Federation (FIDE) rose from 10% in 2020 to 16.5% in 2026. Yet top-level chess remains male-dominated, with no women in the top 100. Fewer players, limited female coaches and unwelcoming environments are barriers. We speak to 24-year-old Moroccan champion Sarah El Barbry, who's bringing chess online.

Presenter : Nkechi Ogbonna

Producers: Keikantse Shumba and Chiamaka Dike

Technical Producer: Mbarak Abdallah

Senior Producers: Bella Twine and Blessing Aderogba

Editors: Samuel Murunga and Maryam Abdalla