AU Condemns Borno Bombings, Offers Condolences to Victims

The African Union (AU) strongly condemned the suicide bombings that struck Maiduguri, Borno State, on March 16, 2026, which resulted in the deaths of 23 people and injuries to over 100 others. In a statement released on Wednesday, Mahmoud Youssouf, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, expressed the AU's full solidarity with the Nigerian government and its people during this difficult time, extending condolences to the families of the victims and wishing a speedy recovery to the injured.

Youssouf reiterated the AU's unequivocal rejection and firm condemnation of violence perpetrated by terrorist elements and violent extremist groups against civilian populations. He described the attacks as grave violations of human rights that undermine peace, security, and stability within communities.

The AU commended the Nigerian government and Borno State authorities for their sustained collective efforts to counter terrorism and improve security conditions in Maiduguri. The statement highlighted the persistent threat posed by terrorism and called for continued vigilance and resilience, urging the international community to scale up support for Nigeria and the Lake Chad Basin region.