Addis Ababa, 14 April 2014: The Chairperson of the Commission of the African Union (AU), Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, is deeply shocked and appalled by the bomb attack that took place this morning in the outskirts of Abuja, Nigeria. This attack claimed dozens of innocent lives and wounded many others.

The Chairperson of the Commission strongly condemns this cowardly and terrorist attack. She expresses AU’s most sincere condolences to the bereaved families and to the people and Government of Nigeria. She wishes those wounded strength and a speedy recovery.

The Chairperson of the Commission reiterates AU's solidarity with Nigeria and support to the efforts aimed at preventing and combating terrorism. She calls for enhanced inter-African cooperation to address this scourge, in line with the relevant African and international instruments.