The African Union has strongly condemned the recent suicide bombings in Maiduguri, Borno State, in Nigeria, highlighting the tragic loss of lives and injuries sustained in the attack. The regional body expressed solidarity with the Government and people of Nigeria, urging continued vigilance against terrorism.

In a statement shared on X on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, the African Union Commission Chairperson, Mahmoud Youssouf, reiterated the organisation’s stance against violent extremist acts that threaten civilians and security officials.

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

The Commission emphasised its support for families affected by the attack and called for urgent measures to help the injured, highlighting the humanitarian dimension of the tragedy.

“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 said.

AU’s rejection of terrorism

Youssouf also underlined the AU’s firm rejection of terrorism and violent extremism, stressing the importance of upholding human rights and maintaining community security.

“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, and stability within communities,” the statement added.

The Commission further commended Nigerian authorities for their sustained efforts in countering terrorism, noting that the attack underscores the persistent threat posed by extremist groups and the need for vigilance.

“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 said.

Calls for international partners to support Nigeria

Finally, the AU urged international partners to increase support to Nigeria and the Lake Chad Basin, promoting collective security, humanitarian aid, and long-term strategies to tackle violent extremism.

“The Chairperson further calls on the 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 stabilisation and development initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of violent extremism,” the statement concludes.

The African Union reaffirmed its commitment to peace and stability in the region, emphasizing the need for a united approach to defeating terrorism and protecting civilian populations.

“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,” the statement reads.