On 26 August, the UN building in Abuja, Nigeria's capital, was struck by a car bomb that left at least 23 people dead and 81 injured. Hundreds of staff members from 26 UN humanitarian and development agencies were working in the compound at the time.
Militant group Boko Haram has claimed responsibility for the attack. The group is said to believe that it is 'haram' (forbidden) for Muslims to take part in any political or social activity with Western society. Earlier this year, it attacked Nigeria's police headquarters.
Asha-Rose Migiro, UN Deputy Secretary-General, travelled to Nigeria to meet survivors and President Goodluck Jonathan. She noted that the dead and wounded included cleaners and security guards, aid workers and national government officials, and said ""amongst the UN colleagues I saw today in hospital there was a very clear message. They wanted their vital work to continue"".
The attack comes days after World Humanitarian Day, which commemorates the bravery and sacrifices made by those who devote their lives to helping others.
