UN envoy reiterates commitment to stability of Nigeria, Lake Chad basin region

While efforts are underway to safely release the abducted Nigerian school girls, more civilians are killed and many others are being displaced by Boko Haram insurgents, the United Nations envoy for West Africa today warned, reiterating the Organization’s commitment to helping stabilize the country.

Special Representative of the Secretary-General Said Djinnit made the statement following a ministerial meeting on security in Nigeria convened yesterday by United Kingdom Foreign and Commonwealth Secretary, William Hague.

“Nigeria has been playing a pivotal role in promoting regional peace and security,” Mr. Djinnit noted, “and the UN is committed to its stability and the consolidation of its democratic achievements.”

He also welcomed the support provided by partner countries, including on strengthening regional response against the activities of Boko Haram in the entire Lake Chad area, which also includes Chad, the Central African Republic, Nigeria, Sudan, Algeria, and Libya.

According to the UN Office for West Africa (UNOWA), Mr. Djinnit extended the UN’s support to efforts of the National Emergency Management Agency and the National Human Rights Commission.

He also highlighted a UN Integrated Support Package (ISP) to complement the Government’s efforts towards securing the safe release of the more than 200 girls seized from their school on 14 April, and to addressing related challenges.

The Package includes immediate support to the affected families, the population and the girls after their release, in particular with psycho-social counselling and helping them reintegrate with their families and communities.

The package also includes projects related to education, water supply and livelihoods.