Statement on the Multiple Bomb Blasts in Jos on May 20 and the Bombing in Sabon-Gari, Kano on May 18 (May 20, 2014)

The U.S Embassy in Abuja strongly condemns the multiple bomb blasts in the city of Jos on May 20, as well as the bombing in the Sabon-Gari neighborhood of the city of Kano on May 18.  These vicious attacks on Nigerian civilians and the abduction last month of more than 200 girls in Chibok are unconscionable acts and starkly demonstrate the criminality of the perpetrators who continue to target defenseless civilians. We have seen reports that tensions are high in Jos, and we join the voices of those who are appealing for calm. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims. The United States met last weekend in Paris with Nigerian authorities as well as our partners and allies to discuss the way forward on confronting the regional security threat Boko Haram poses to Nigeria and West Africa. Countries agreed to work together to establish a regional counter-terrorism strategy, strengthen regional cooperation, including with respect to intelligence sharing and border security, and mobilize support for sanctions against Boko Haram at the United Nations. The search for the missing school girls of Chibok is ongoing.  The Nigerians are in the lead.  We’re continuing to lend our unique assets and capabilities to assist in the search. We continue to stand with the Nigerian government and people as they grapple with violent extremism