The United Nations (UN) has announced that it has taken up a new strategy that would help Nigeria in combating terrorism that is fast tearing the country apart.
The Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary General for West Africa, Mr. Said Djinnit, made the announcement at the opening of the 45th ordinary session of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Thursday.
Djinnit said he was satisfied with ECOWAS support for the counter-terrorism efforts given to Nigeria in tackling the Boko Haram scourge. He explained that the new strategy, known as integrated support package, aims to complement the ongoing efforts of government.
He held that support currently being given by ECOWAS is a reflection of the shared aims of countries in the region and their legitimate concern about the spread of violent extremism.
“The United Nations has adopted an integrated support package to complement Nigeria’s efforts, since we are convinced that only a multi-dimensional approach can bring lasting solution to the crisis,” Djinnit announced. “Our primary and immediate concern is the plight of children including in particular those that are being held in captivity by the terrorists as well as the fate of the civilian population in the North East, where human rights and humanitarian conditions are distressing.”
Delivering the welcome address at the forum, President of the Republic of Ghana and current Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Governments, John Dramani Mahama, commended the establishment of peace operations in Cameroon and Chad to defeat the Boko Haram sect.
