Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General on inter-communal violence in Nigeria

The Secretary-General is deeply saddened by the inter-communal violence in the Nigerian city of Jos which has resulted tragically in the loss of so many lives, the displacement of people and the destruction of property. The Secretary-General is encouraged by the Nigerian Government's response to efforts to bring the situation under control and to restore normalcy.

He extends his sincere condolences to the families of the victims and to the Government and people of Nigeria as a whole. He stresses the readiness of the United Nations to contribute to efforts to help those affected.