Oluremi Tinubu, first lady of Nigeria, has paid tribute to those who died during the terrorist attack on the United Nations building in Abuja in 2011.

On August 26, 2011, a suicide bomb attack at the UN building led to the death of more than 20 persons, including 12 UN staff members.

Speaking after laying the wreath in honour of the victims, the first lady said she longed for a world where terrorism and its severe impacts on society are effectively combatted.

She said the global community must channel more energy towards fostering peace, promoting dialogue and fighting the forces of hatred and division.

“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 the UN building,” she said.

“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.”

Also speaking at the event, Vladimir Voronkov, undersecretary general of the UN, office of counterterrorism, emphasised the need to build solidarity and provide support to victims of terrorism across the world

“The Federal Republic of Nigeria knows the consequences of terrorism within and around its borders all too well,” he said.

“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 20th anniversary of the devastating attack on the Canal Hotel in Baghdad, Iraq, on 19 August 2003.”