Addis Ababa, February 23 (QNA) - Chairperson of the African Union Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf strongly condemned the attacks carried out in Zamfara State, northwest Nigeria, which led to the killing of more than 50 civilians and the abduction of women and children.

In a statement, Youssouf stressed the African Union's categorical rejection of all acts of terrorism and violent extremism against civilians, especially women and children, as grave violations of human rights and serious threats to peace, security and stability.

He voiced the union's full solidarity with Nigeria, calling for the immediate, safe, and unconditional release of all abducted women and children.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission urged strengthening and coordinating collective efforts to protect civilians and prevent the recurrence of such atrocities, in line with the union's commitment to peace, security, and stability in Africa. (QNA)