Mr Mohammed Chambas, UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for West Africa, on Monday restated the UN’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in overcoming its challenges of Boko Haram terrorism.

Chambas told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that the UN stood in solidarity with the Nigerian government in its ongoing effort at fighting the activities of Boko Haram.

“Today, as we can all see, terrorism is no longer a Nigerian problem alone. It has become an international problem that calls for a strong international response.

“The UN stands in solidarity with Nigeria as it takes the fight to Boko Haram terrorism which must be defeated at all cost.

“We will continue to be supportive in ensuring the effective coordination of situations in Nigeria and other countries currently being affected by Boko Haram terrorism.”

The UN official said that he and other UN agencies’ chiefs were in Nigeria for discussions with notable Nigerian leaders on the way forward to ending the menace of Boko Haram.

Chambas also announced plan to increase the number of troops for the Multi-National Joint Task Force to be able to match stride with Boko Haram activities in Nigeria and other countries.

The UN special representative also disclosed plans by the UN to work closely with the National Emergency Management (NEMA) and Non-Governmental Organisations in providing humanitarian support for internally displaced persons.

Chambas said that the UN had recently visited the North-East part of Nigeria for an assessment of the humanitarian situation of the displaced persons.

“So, many Nigerians have been displaced and so many others dead due to activities of these terrorists.

“The UN is already supporting many Nigerians who are refugees in neighbouring countries particularly in Niger and Chad.

“We expect to see a significant and effective response to thoroughly fighting Boko Haram in the coming months.” (NAN)

•Photo shows Chambas.

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