The Federal Government has expressed its profound condolences to the Government and people of the People’s Republic of China following devastating floods and landslides along the China-Nepal border that have claimed more than 500 lives.
The disaster, which occurred on August 26, 2026, left hundreds of people injured and caused extensive destruction in affected communities, including Gyrong County in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China.
In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the disaster resulted in the loss of Chinese and Nepali lives, as well as tourists from Australia, India, Malaysia, the United Kingdom and the United States, among other nationalities.
The Federal Government extended its “heartfelt condolences and thoughts” to the Government and people of China over what it described as the devastating impact of the natural disaster.
Nigeria also commiserated with the bereaved families, injured persons, displaced people and communities whose homes and livelihoods were severely affected by the floods and landslides.
The statement said, “The Government of Nigeria extends its heartfelt condolences and thoughts to the Government and people of the People’s Republic of China over the deadly impact of the disaster.”
It added that Nigeria “commiserates with bereaved families, the injured, the displaced, and the communities whose homes and livelihoods have been severely impacted by the devastating natural disaster.”
The Federal Government also expressed solidarity with China during the period of mourning and commended the emergency response mounted by Chinese authorities under the leadership of President Xi Jinping.
“Standing in solidarity with China during this challenging period of grief, we commend the prompt emergency response of the Chinese authorities under the leadership of His Excellency President Xi Jinping,” the statement said.
Nigeria acknowledged the progress made in rescue operations and humanitarian interventions, including efforts to save lives, provide emergency assistance and support communities affected by the disaster.
The government also praised Chinese first responders and rescue teams for their efforts in responding to the emergency.
“Nigeria salutes the courage and altruism demonstrated by the Chinese first responders and rescue teams, whose tireless efforts continue to save lives and provide critical assistance to those affected by the disaster,” the statement said.
The Federal Government said the scale of the tragedy underscored the need for continued emergency support for affected communities as rescue, recovery and reconstruction operations continue.
Nigeria also expressed hope that the victims, survivors and affected communities would find the strength to recover from the impact of the disaster.
The government said it remained hopeful that “all people affected by this tragedy will emerge stronger,” as efforts continue to restore affected communities and rebuild damaged infrastructure and livelihoods.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs further extended its sympathies to the families of those who lost their lives and wished strength and comfort to those affected by the disaster.
“May the souls of those who have lost their lives rest in peace, and may the injured and affected families find strength, comfort, and hope as recovery and reconstruction efforts continue,” the statement said.
The Federal Government reaffirmed Nigeria’s solidarity with China and all communities affected by the floods and landslides, while commending the ongoing rescue and humanitarian efforts aimed at mitigating the impact of the disaster.