The pontiff addressed the complex situation in that African nation in his remarks delivered this afternoon after the Angelus prayer, from the window of his study in the Apostolic Palace of the Vatican, before thousands of faithful and pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square, according to a statement from the Holy See Press Office.

“With sorrow and concern I learned of the recent attacks against various communities in Nigeria, which have caused grave loss of life,” the Bishop of Rome, who expressed his “closeness and prayers to all the victims of violence and terrorism”, said.

“I hope that the competent authorities will continue working with determination to guarantee the safety and protection of the lives of all citizens,” the Holy Father added, referring to the complex situation in the north of that West African country.

A report published on the Vatican News website, referring to the Holy Father’s statement, notes that in just a few days, two attacks in Nigeria’s Benue State resulted in the deaths of 30 people, and more than 50 were kidnapped in four villages in southern Kaduna State.

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