The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has strongly condemned what he has described as heinous and coordinated terrorist attacks perpetrated on 21 February 2026 in Zamfara State, Northwestern Nigeria.
These attacks resulted in the deaths of more than 50 civilians and the abduction of numerous women and children.
The African Union unequivocally rejects all acts of terrorism and violent extremism against civilian populations particularly women and children as grave violations of human rights and serious threats to continental peace, security, and stability.
The Chairperson in statement has expressed the African Union’s full solidarity with the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wishes a swift recovery to those injured.
He reaffirmed the African Union’s unwavering support for Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to address insecurity and restore lasting peace.
The Chairperson calls for the immediate, safe, and unconditional release of all abducted persons.
He urges strengthened, coordinated, and collective action to protect civilians and prevent the recurrence of such atrocities, in line with the African Union’s commitment to securing a peaceful and stable continent.
Below is the full statement
