Borno Bombings: African Union Urges World to Help Nigeria Fight Terrorism

The African Union has reacted strongly to the recent bomb attacks in Maiduguri, Borno State, urging the international community to step up support for Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.

The explosions, which occurred on Monday night, left at least 23 people dead and over 150 others injured, sending shockwaves across the country.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Youssouf, condemned the incident and described it as a tragic assault on innocent civilians.

He said the union “strongly condemns the suicide bombings which occurred in Maiduguri, Borno State, northeastern Nigeria, on March 16, 2026, resulting in several deaths, and others injured.”

He expressed sympathy for the victims and their families, noting that the AU “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 regional body also renewed its stance against terrorism across the continent. Youssouf stressed that the AU maintains “unequivocal rejection and firm condemnation of all forms of violence perpetrated by terrorist elements, and violent extremist groups against civilian populations and security officials.”

He added that such attacks remain “a grave violation of human rights and (an undermining of) peace, security, (and) stability within communities.”

Beyond condemnation, the African Union called for stronger global collaboration. It urged partners to increase humanitarian support, intelligence sharing, and security cooperation, especially within the Lake Chad Basin.

The commission noted that tackling terrorism requires not just military action but also long-term investment in development and stability.

Youssouf acknowledged efforts by Nigerian authorities in addressing insecurity in the region. He commended both the federal government and Borno State leadership “for their sustained and collective efforts in countering terrorism and improving security conditions in Maiduguri and its environs over recent years.”

However, he warned that the latest attack shows that the threat remains active and dangerous.

The AU further emphasised the need for a unified response, stating 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.”

He concluded by assuring Nigeria of the union’s continued backing, reaffirming “full solidarity and unwavering support of the African Union to the government and people of Nigeria in promoting sustainable peace and stability.”