In appreciation of the efforts of Nigerian soldiers in the war against terrorism and insurgency in the country, The United Nations Organization (UNO) has commended the Nigerian Army for being professional in handling Boko Haram terrorism and insurgency especially  in the North East Nigeria, saying their conduct was exemplary and  it is in line with international best practices.

This commendation was given by The Special Assistant to United Nations Secretary General (SRSG), Office for West Africa, His Excellency, Dr Mohammad Ibn Chambas during the UN solidarity visit to the Nigerian Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai in his office, at the Headquarters of the Theatre Command of Operation LAFIYA DOLE in Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri, Borno State.

In a press release signed by the Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 7 Division, Colonel Mustapha Abubakar Anka and made available to CEOAfrica, The SRSG stressed that the UN has been explicit and consistent in condemning the activities of the Boko Haram terrorists in the North Eastern part of the country. He went further to commend Nigeria';s neighbouring countries for collaborating with Nigeria in fighting the terrorists.

Dr Ibrahim Chambers, who was accompanied to the visit by some top diplomats of the UN, acknowledged that the UN was conscious of the hardship caused to Nigerians as a result of the activities of the Boko Haram Terrorists and promised that the UN is ready to collaborate with other Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to bring succour to the affected persons.

Mr Mohammad also appreciated the efforts of the Borno State Government, National Emergency Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Agency (SEMA) and other Humanitarian Agencies in providing succour for the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the North East. He assured that the UN will do everything possible to support, rehabilitate and resettle the victims of this menace. He also used the opportunity of the visit to pay tribute to Nigerian military personnel who lost their lives in the cause of the conflict, describing them as heroes who paid the supreme prize for others to live.

In his response, the Chief of Army Staff, thanked the UN chief for the visit, kind commendation and promise of continuous support to the fight against Boko Haram terrorists in Nigeria. He also thanked the world body for all the support given to the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) especially at the formation stage of the Task Force when he was the pioneer Force Commander. Lt. Gen. Buratai noted that the MNJTF has achieved a lot in the fight against terrorism, which he attributed to the solid foundation at its take off.

The Chief of Army Staff promised to continue to lead the Nigerian Army in the fight against terrorism until the terrorists surrender to the Federal Government of Nigeria.