In a statement issued by Ban's spokesperson, the UN chief reiterated his call for the countries affected by Boko Haram to address the root causes of this scourge in a holistic and integrated manner.

Ban extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.

“The Secretary-General reaffirms his solidarity with the people of Chad and reiterates the United Nations' support for the Government in its fight against terrorism, which must be conducted in full respect of international human rights, humanitarian and refugee law,” the statement concluded.

Photo: OCHA/Mayanne Munan