Nigerian leader to call for global unity against terrorism

Nigerian leader Muhammadu Buhari, who is due in France on Tuesday, will call for a concerted global effort against terrorism at a special session of the European Union on Wednesday.

A presidency statement said Buhari, who is leading a delegation of Nigerian officials to the high-level meeting in France, will deliver an address at a special session of the EU parliament consisting of members of the executive and legislative arms of the regional bloc.

His speech will focus on terrorism and violent extremism, as well as the need for greater support from the European Union and advanced nations for their rapid resolution, the statement said.

Buhari, after addressing the special session at the EU summit, will join other world leaders at the Supporting Syria and The Region Conference scheduled to open in the British capital, London, on Thursday.

He will use the opportunity of his presence at the conference - co-hosted by Britain, Germany, Norway, Kuwait and the United Nations - to continue his push for more global understanding, collaboration and support for Nigeria and other countries in the frontlines of the war against terrorism who are striving to overcome its very adverse effects on affected populations, presidential spokesman Femi Adesina told Xinhua.

Nigeria, Africa's most populous country, is currently feeling the heat of terrorism by Boko Haram. The terror group, which has spread its tentacles to neighboring countries including Cameroon, Chad and Niger, has abducted thousands of people and killed more since 2009.

The Nigerian government said it has "technically" defeated the ruthless Boko Haram group but the unrelenting fighters have continued to carry out attacks after attacks in the West African country. Endit