The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Youssouf, strongly condemns the suicide bombings which occurred in Maiduguri, Borno State, northeastern Nigeria, on 16 March 2026, resulting to several deaths, and others injured.

The African Union stands in full solidarity with the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria during this difficult time and extends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims, while wishing speedy recovery to those injured.

The Chairperson reiterates the African Union’s unequivocal rejection and firm condemnation of all forms of violence perpetrated by terrorist elements, and violent extremist groups against civilian populations and security officials. Such acts constitute a grave violation of human rights and undermine peace, security, stability within communities.

The Chairperson of the Commission commends the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as well as Borno State authorities, for their sustained and collective efforts in countering terrorism and improving security conditions in Maiduguri and its environs over recent years. This tragic incident underscores the persistent threat posed by terrorism and the need for continued vigilance and resilience.

The Chairperson further calls on international community to scale up support to Nigeria and the Lake Chad Basin region at large, including through enhanced humanitarian assistance, capacity-building, intelligence-sharing, and sustained investment in stabilization and development initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of violent extremism.

The African Union reaffirms that only through a whole of society, collective security and action approach, strengthened cooperation, and sustained commitment, can the threat of terrorism be effectively defeated and lasting peace secured, in line with relevant African Union instruments and frameworks on conflict prevention, counter-terrorism, and peacebuilding.

The Chairperson reaffirms full solidarity and unwavering support of the African Union to the Government and people of Nigeria in promoting sustainable peace and stability.

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Mr. Nuur Mohamud Sheekh I Spokesperson of the Chairperson I African Union Commission I Email: SheekhN@AfricanUnion.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia