Memorial service for UN House bombed victims

Nigerian and UN officials gathered in Abuja today to hold a memorial service for victims of last year’s suicide bombing of the UN building in the Nigerian capital that left 25 people dead and dozens injured, the United Nations said in Abuja.

Diplomats, families and friends of the victims laid wreaths in honour of those who lost their lives as a result of the attack at the UN House last year,” a statement said.

The United Nations expressed gratitude to all those who stood by the world body following the August 26, 2011, suicide attack claimed by the Islamist group Boko Haram that also left dozens injured.

“Although the devastating attack took the lives of our colleagues and partners and maimed many people, all of whom were in the building in the pursuit of service to humanity, our spirits have not been dampened,” UN Resident Coordinator in Nigeria Daouda Toure was quoted as saying at the ceremony.

“Their death mobilises us more than ever before. Their sacrifice will not be in vain. We will strive to pursue our work for the people of Nigeria for the continuance of peace and stability of this great nation, and the socio-economic development of all,” he said.

Toure commended the resilience and courage of UN staff and officials who have continued undaunted with their development and humanitarian work.

Nigeria is facing the frightening incubus of Boko Haram killings. The Islamic sect even in recent statements said it determined to create an Islamic state in northern Nigeria.

The group has killed more than 1,400 people since 2010 in attacks across northern and central Nigeria.

Boko Haram, which has different factions with varying demands, has increasingly attacked Christians, but Muslims have also often been among its victims.

The US State Department last month designated three of the group’s leaders as global terrorists.