Djibouti/Mogadishu, October 6, 2025 — The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has strongly condemned the terrorist attack carried out by the Al-Shabaab militant group on the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) headquarters at the Godka Jilacow compound in Mogadishu, Somalia.
In a statement issued from Djibouti, IGAD Executive Secretary Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu described the assault as a “cowardly act of terror” and expressed solidarity with the Somali government and its people.
“This attack will not shake Somalia’s courage or our region’s resolve,” said Dr. Gebeyehu. “IGAD stands firmly with the people and Government of Somalia in the fight against terror and in pursuit of lasting peace and stability.”
According to the Federal Government of Somalia, the attack occurred around 4:40 p.m. when Al-Shabaab militants disguised a vehicle as a NISA transport and attempted to storm the heavily guarded compound. Security forces swiftly responded, neutralizing some of the attackers and launching a clearance operation to secure the facility.
A statement posted by Somali National Television (SNTV) confirmed that security personnel “are now conducting a clearance operation at the Godka Jilacow compound” to ensure the full elimination of the threat.
IGAD commended the professionalism and courage of Somalia’s security forces, noting that their quick response prevented a larger tragedy. The regional body also linked the incident to Al-Shabaab’s desperation following recent territorial losses in the Lower Shabelle region and the elimination of senior operatives in targeted operations.
“The attack underscores the group’s growing frustration and the effectiveness of ongoing counter-terrorism measures,” the IGAD statement noted.
The regional bloc further called for sustained regional and international cooperation to eradicate terrorism and strengthen peace and stability across the Horn of Africa.
Circumstantial
Al-Shabaab, an al-Qaeda–affiliated militant group, has intensified attacks against Somali government installations and security forces as the country continues its counter-insurgency operations backed by regional and international partners. The Godka Jilacow facility, located in the Banadir region, houses key intelligence operations of Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency.
