African Union condemns deadly terror attack in Niger

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (AA) - The African Union has condemned Tuesday’s terrorist attack in Niger's southwestern region of Tillabery that killed 69 and injured several others.

“The Chairperson of the African Union Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat condemns in the strongest terms the terrorist attack,” it said in a statement on Friday.

“The Chairperson reaffirms that this shocking new attack against civilians is a stark reminder of the urgent need for renewed regional and international support and solidarity with the governments and people of the Sahel Region in their fight against terrorism.”

Following the tragedy, the government declared a national period of mourning of 48 hours from Friday. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Niger is facing insurgencies on its borders with Mali, Burkina Faso and Nigeria.