The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has strongly condemned the terrorist attacks that occurred on 21 February 2026 in Zamfara State, Northwestern Nigeria, which resulted in the deaths of more than 50 civilians and the abduction of women and children.

In an official statement, Chairperson Youssouf emphasized that all acts of terrorism and violent extremism targeting civilian populations constitute serious human rights violations and pose significant threats to peace, security, and stability across the African continent.

He expressed the African Union’s full solidarity with the government and people of Nigeria, offering condolences to the families of the victims and wishing a swift recovery to those injured. The Chairperson also reaffirmed the African Union’s unwavering support for Nigeria’s efforts to address insecurity and restore lasting peace.

Chairperson Youssouf called for the immediate, safe, and unconditional release of all abducted women and children. He also stressed the need for strengthened, coordinated, and collective action to protect civilian populations and prevent the recurrence of such atrocities, in line with the African Union’s commitment to peace and security in Africa.

The attacks occurred in a context of escalating violence in Northwestern Nigeria, where armed groups and terrorist organizations continue to target civilian populations, intensifying the region’s humanitarian and security challenges.