President Muhammadu Buhari said Wednesday in Eldoret, Kenya that the global community must resolve to act with more determination and vigour against radicalisation and extremist ideologies which encourage terrorism.
Speaking at a memorial service in honour of Kenyan soldiers who were killed by Al-Shabaab in Somalia recently, the President said peace-loving nations of the world must now come together and deal with the threat posed to global security by terrorism with greater zeal and cohesion.
“Terrorists should not have a place in our communities, villages, towns, cities and countries. We must all rise against the culture of intolerance, hatred and extremist ideologies, which drive terrorism.
“We must also act with more firmness against radicalization and all those who promote values and principles that threaten our unity and cohesion as a people. Nigeria is willing to work with Kenya, other African countries and the global community at large with a view to defeating these undesirable elements.
“We must take the battle to the terrorists whoever they are and wherever they are. This requires commitment, sacrifice, resources, collaboration and above all a realization that no country is immune to the scourge, as terrorists do not respect national boundaries, race, colour, religion or creed,” he said.
The President applauded the bravery of Nigerian and Kenyan soldiers, and others around the world “who have remained faithful and committed to the cause of ensuring a secure and peaceful world in spite of daunting challenges,” and paid special tribute to the Kenyan soldiers who lost their lives in the terrorist attack on their base in Somalia.
“I wish to use this occasion to pay tribute to all the fallen heroes of the El Adde attack and pray for the repose of their souls. In our efforts to collaboratively tackle terrorism, it is our sacred duty as leaders, politicians and compatriots to ensure that the blood of these fallen heroes was not shed in vain,” he said.
The President, who is on a three-day state visit to Kenya, attended the memorial service in the company of his host, President Uhuru Kenyatta and President Hassan Mohamoud of Somalia.
