Russian government has pledged to support efforts of the Nigerian government in curbing terrorism as the government condemned rising insurgency in the country.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Russian Foreign Ministry on Friday.
“Russian Foreign Ministry decisively condemns new crimes conducted by bandit groups in Nigeria, which caused large human casualties; as well as destabilization of the social and economic situation in the northeastern part of this country; as well as worsening of the crime situation,” the Ministry said.
“We consistently and invariably support the measures taken by the government of Nigeria on efficient countering of terrorist groups, including efforts within collective efforts on the African continent.’’
Russia, also expressed its interest in further cooperation with the Nigerian government; specifically, in the area of counter-terrorism efforts to end the insurgency.
However, it noted that this would be on a bilateral basis and on various international venues; including the United Nations.
Meanwhile, the Russian Foreign Ministry revealed that between June 9 and 13; squads of Boko Haram and the Islamic State Western Africa Province (ISWAP) terror groups conducted a number of attacks. It noted that these attacks were targeted at the Nigerian military and local civilians.
Also, it stated that serious clashes took place near the city of Monguno in Borno; where the coordination centre of a number of international organizations working in Nigeria is located.
Further, the Ministry noted that over 120 civilians and military personnel died in the attack; with several others sustaining injuries.
