In a powerful and timely statement, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat—represented by AU Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa and the Sahel, Mohamed Ibn Chambas (referred to in reports as Youssouf)—has strongly condemned recent acts of terrorism in Nigeria, describing them as grave violations of human rights that continue to threaten peace, security, and stability across communities in the Lake Chad Basin region.
The remarks were made in response to the latest tragic incident that has once again shaken the region, underscoring the persistent and evolving threat posed by violent extremist groups. Despite commendable progress in recent years, the resurgence of attacks reminds us that the fight against terrorism is far from over.
Youssouf praised the sustained and collaborative efforts of both the Nigerian federal government and the Borno State government in their ongoing battle against terrorism. He acknowledged significant improvements in security conditions within Maiduguri and its surrounding areas, noting that these gains are the result of relentless determination, strategic coordination, and unwavering resilience by local authorities and security forces.
“While we celebrate the progress made, the latest tragic incident is a stark reminder that terrorism remains an imminent and dangerous threat,” Youssouf emphasized. “It is imperative that we remain vigilant and continue to strengthen our defences—not just militarily, but socially, economically, and politically.”
A Call for Greater International Support
One of the central messages of Youssouf’s statement was a passionate appeal to the international community. He urged global partners to “scale up support to Nigeria and the Lake Chad Basin region at large” in confronting the rising tide of terrorism.
According to the AU envoy, this support must be comprehensive and multi-dimensional. He outlined key areas where assistance is most needed:
- Enhanced humanitarian assistance to support displaced populations and communities recovering from violence.
- Capacity-building for national and regional security forces to improve operational effectiveness.
- Intelligence-sharing across borders to dismantle terrorist networks before they strike.
- Sustained investment in long-term stabilisation and development initiatives targeting the root causes of violent extremism—such as poverty, unemployment, marginalisation, and lack of education.
“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,” Youssouf declared, aligning the AU’s stance with its established frameworks on conflict prevention, counter-terrorism, and peacebuilding.
Solidarity with Nigeria
Beyond strategy and support, Youssouf also extended a message of deep solidarity. He reaffirmed the African Union’s unwavering support for the Nigerian government in its pursuit of sustainable peace and long-term stability.
“This is not a battle Nigeria must fight alone,” he said. “The pain of every attack, the loss of every innocent life, concerns us all. Peace in Nigeria is peace for Africa.”
The Lake Chad Basin region, once a thriving hub of trade and culture, has endured more than a decade of conflict fueled by Boko Haram and its splinter groups. Millions have been displaced, economies disrupted, and generations affected. Yet, as recent security improvements demonstrate, progress is possible—even in the face of overwhelming adversity.
The Path Forward
The road to lasting peace requires more than military victories. It demands healing, reconciliation, economic revival, and inclusive governance. Communities must be empowered, youth must be engaged, and the conditions that give rise to extremism must be systematically dismantled.
Youssouf’s call to action is not just for policymakers and security agencies—it’s for civil society, religious leaders, educators, and citizens across Africa and beyond. Peacebuilding is everyone’s responsibility.
As Nigeria and its neighbours continue to confront the shadows of terrorism, the African Union’s message is clear: unity, perseverance, and international solidarity are not options—they are necessities.
Only together can we turn the tide. Only together can we build a future where security is not a privilege, but a promise.
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