Nigeria condemns Mali defence minister’s killing

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Bianca Ojukwu

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The Federal Government of Nigeria has condemned, in strong terms, the tragic killing of the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs of the Republic of Mali, Lt-Gen. Sadio Camara, following the terrorist attacks on April 25.

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The ministry of foreign affairs’ spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday in Abuja while expressing Nigeria’s deepest sympathies to the bereaved family and the Malian Armed Forces.

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The federal government also sympathised with the government and people of Mali for the grievous loss at a critical moment in the nation’s history.

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According to him, in times such as these, when the fragility of human life is laid bare by violence, the bonds that unite nations are felt most deeply.

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Ebienfa said, “Nigeria stands in solidarity with Mali and reaffirms the enduring ties of brotherhood, shared destiny, and collective resilience that define the African spirit.

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“The Federal Government of Nigeria condemns the cowardly acts perpetrated by terrorist groups in different parts of the country in recent days which have resulted in the loss of lives and properties.

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“Such acts not only threaten national stability but also undermine the shared values of peace, dignity, and coexistence upon which our societies are built.

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“Terrorism, in all its forms and manifestations, remains a common adversary that demands unified resolve, sustained cooperation and reaffirmation of our shared humanity to tackle.”

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He stated Nigeria’s resolve to support Mali towards safeguarding its sovereignty and preservation of its territorial integrity as well as to restoration of lasting peace and security.

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According to him, Nigeria remains committed to working with Mali and other partners within regional and international frameworks to confront the scourge of terrorism.

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“Nigeria is committed to promoting stability across the Sahel and the wider West African sub-region.

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“Nigeria renews its call for strengthened solidarity among nations, guided by the principles of mutual respect, collective security, and recognition that the peace of one is inseparable from the peace of all,” he said. (NAN)

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