November 29, 2014 - Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today issued the following statement after terrorists targeted worshippers gathered for Friday prayers at the central mosque in Kano, Nigeria, killing and wounding large numbers of defenceless civilians:
“This outrageous and premeditated act is all the more repugnant because of its deliberate targeting of innocent and devout Muslims as they gathered in their place of worship for their Friday prayers.
“Terrorists in Nigeria have killed thousands in gun and bomb attacks on churches, schools, police stations, military and government buildings, and even mosques. Hundreds of thousands of innocent people have been driven from their homes. Canada stands in solidarity with the Nigerian people as they are faced with these heinous attacks.
“On behalf of all Canadians, I offer my sincere condolences to the families and friends of those killed and wish a speedy recovery to the injured.”
- 30 -
For further information, media representatives may contact:
Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
Follow us on Twitter: @CanadaFP
Like us on Facebook: Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada-DFATD
