2011 bombing: First lady lays wreath at UN House Abuja

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu yesterday paid tributes to those killed in the bombing of the United Nations building in Abuja on August 26, 2011.

Speaking at the wreath laying ceremony in honour of the victims of the incident, Mrs Tinubu called for a world where terrorism, along with its severe impact on the society, was effectively combatted.

To achieve this, she said the global community must channel more energy towards fostering peace, promoting dialogue and combating the forces of hatred and division.

Paying tribute, she said the world must not only draw strength from the sacrifice of those serving the cause of peace, but must also recommit to the values of unity, understanding and cooperation that the UN represents.

“On this solemn occasion, we remember and honour the lives that were lost. I pay tribute to the dedicated individuals who were serving the cause of peace and development within the walls of UN building.”

“Today, we stand united in our resolve and determination to create a world where the principles of peace, justice and cooperation that the United Nations stands for are not merely ideals, but reality for all.”

She was joined by the Under Secretary-General of UN, Office of Counterterrorism Valdimir Voronkov in performing the ceremony laying.

The Under Secretary General also harped on the need to build solidarity and provide support to victims of terrorism across the world as terrorism continues to threaten peace and security, leaving in its wake hundreds of thousands of victims and survivors.

“The Federal Republic of Nigeria knows the consequences of terrorism within and around its borders all too well.  Indeed, parts of Africa have experienced the highest impact of terrorism for many years”.

“The United Nations itself is not immune from terrorism. Two weeks ago, we marked the 20thanniversary of the devastating attack on the Canal Hotel in Baghdad, Iraq, on 19 August 2003”. 

The solemn and brief ceremony was witnessed by heads of some of the United Nations Agencies in Nigeria.