As Bombed UN Nigeria House Prepares to Reopen, Deputy Secretary-General

Remembers Those Who Gave their Lives

 

Following are UN Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, at a wreath laying event at UN House site, in Abuja today:

I am honoured to join you today to pay tribute to the lives and memories of 23 innocent men and women falling victims to terrorism on 26 August 2011.  My thoughts are also with those who were injured, or otherwise affected, and with all of you as you prepare to return to this building.

I want you to know that your remarkable courage and resilience is deeply admired and appreciated by the Secretary-General and your colleagues around the world.

The victims were women and men of all faiths and walks of life.  They devoted their lives to helping the people of Nigeria meet their aspirations for peace, development and lives in dignity.

As we honour the sacrifice of our colleagues, I want to assure you that the United Nations will not allow terrorists to weaken our commitment to work with the people of Nigeria for a better future.

Together, we stand strong in our determination to continue to accompany the Government and people of Nigeria in fulfilling their goals.

The UN system is grateful to the people and Government of Nigeria for the unwavering support, solidarity and commitment to the mission of UN in Nigeria.

I recognize the Government’s efforts to rehabilitate and upgrade the UN House for the UN system in Nigeria.

I join the families of the victims and the larger UN family in honouring our colleagues.  Let their memories will live on through our work.

Thank you.

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For information media • not an official record