The Federal Government has expressed condolences to the government and people of the People’s Republic of China following the deadly landslide that struck Dangchang County in Gansu Province on Tuesday.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Nigeria sympathised with China over the disaster, which has claimed at least 21 lives, while rescue and recovery efforts continue.
“Nigeria mourns the loss of lives in this disaster, which has claimed at least 21 lives, with others affected amid the rescue operations.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased, the injured, and all those who have lost loved ones or property in this unfortunate incident,” the ministry said.
The Federal Government also commended the swift response of the Chinese authorities and emergency teams in rescuing victims and providing relief to affected communities.
Highlighting the strong bilateral ties between both countries, the ministry reaffirmed Nigeria’s solidarity with China during the period of mourning.
“Nigeria and China share a long-standing strategic partnership built on mutual respect, friendship and cooperation.
“Nigeria stands in solidarity with China during this difficult time, and we are confident in the resilience of the Chinese people and government as they work towards recovery and rehabilitation in the affected areas.
“We pray for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed, the speedy recovery of the injured, and strength and comfort for the bereaved families,” the statement added.
The expression of sympathy came as Chinese state media confirmed that the death toll from the landslide in Gansu Province had risen to 21.
According to the state-run Xinhua News Agency, the landslide occurred at about 6:56 a.m. on Tuesday in Rencang Village, Dangchang County, burying 33 people.
“Search and rescue operations at the site of the landslide in Dangchang County have concluded; the landslide resulted in 21 fatalities,” Xinhua quoted local authorities as saying on Wednesday.
Chinese authorities have allocated 30 million yuan (about $4.2 million) for reconstruction efforts in the affected area.
Natural disasters are common across China, particularly during the summer, when some regions experience torrential rainfall while others endure extreme heat.
The landslide occurred on the same day severe storms and flooding in southern and central China killed about 17 people and injured hundreds more.
