The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned the recent terrorist attack on a military airport in Bamako, Mali, News About Nigeria reports.
This position was made clear in a statement on Saturday by Ambassador Eche Abu-Obe, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
“The Federal Republic of Nigeria strongly condemns the abominable terrorist attack that took place on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024, targeting a military airport, training centre, and other sensitive locations in Bamako, Mali,” the statement read.
The attack resulted in multiple deaths and the destruction of military aircraft.
“This heinous act is a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by extremist groups,” the Nigerian government said.
Nigeria also extended its condolences to Mali, expressing sympathy for the victims and their families.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this tragic incident,” the statement concluded.
More than 70 people were reportedly killed earlier this week in an attack on Mali’s capital, Bamako, by a group linked to al-Qaeda, according to diplomatic and security sources.
Fighters from the Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) launched the assault on an elite police training academy and a nearby airport on Tuesday, sparking widespread shock and anger across the country.
A security source, speaking anonymously to AFP, said that 77 people had lost their lives, while 255 others were injured.
AFP also referenced a confidential official document estimating around 100 fatalities, identifying 81 victims.
Two diplomats in the region, including one based in Bamako, confirmed to Reuters that the death toll was likely in the 70s.
A third regional diplomat indicated that the number of dead and injured could be in the hundreds, with hospitals overwhelmed and running out of beds to treat the victims.
