The UN Security Council on Tuesday urged West Africa countries to enhance regional military operations and coordination to effectively combat activities of Boko Haram in the region.

The Security Council stated this in a statement made available in Lagos by the United Nations Information Centre, UNIC.

The council, however, restated its determination to combat all forms of terrorism, in accordance with its responsibilities under the Charter of the UN.

“The Security Council reiterated its deep concern that the activity of Boko Haram is presently undermining the peace and stability of the West and Central African region.

“Members of the Security Council, therefore, urge the region to enhance regional military operations and coordination to more effectively and immediately combat Boko Haram insurgency,’’ it said.

The statement, while condemning the spate of Boko Haram’s recent attacks in Maiduguri and in Lake Chad Basin region, said that the insurgents now constituted threat to local and international peace.

It also said that it was imperative for perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors of acts of terrorism to be sanctioned.

“The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including the actions of Boko Haram constitute one of the most serious threats to international peace and security.

“And that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whosoever committed it,’’ the statement said.

It also expressed the council’s condolences to the families of the victims of the attacks. (NAN)