The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed profound sympathy to the Government and people of the People’s Republic of China following the devastating landslide in Gansu Province that claimed at least 21 lives and left several others affected.
According to an official statement signed by the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigeria extended its heartfelt condolences to President Xi Jinping, the bereaved families and the Chinese people as rescue and relief operations continue in Tanchang County.
The Federal Government described the tragedy as deeply saddening and reiterated its solidarity with China during the difficult period, while expressing confidence in the country’s resilience and recovery efforts.
“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 statement said.
The government also commended the swift response of Chinese authorities and emergency personnel, acknowledging their efforts in rescuing survivors and providing humanitarian assistance to affected communities.
“Nigeria commends the swift response of the Chinese authorities and rescue teams in their efforts to save lives and provide relief to those impacted,” Ebienfa stated.
Reaffirming the enduring ties between both countries, the Federal Government noted that Nigeria and China share a longstanding strategic partnership founded on mutual respect, friendship and cooperation. It added that China remains one of Nigeria’s largest trading partners and a major development partner, supporting critical infrastructure projects across sectors including transportation, energy and aviation.
The statement further highlighted the expanding collaboration between both nations in trade, investment, security, agriculture, technology and human capital development under their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
“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,” the statement added.
The Federal Government also offered prayers for the victims, wishing the injured a speedy recovery while praying for the peaceful repose of those who lost their lives and strength for their grieving families.
The landslide struck the mountainous Tanchang County in northwestern China’s Gansu Province after torrential rainfall triggered a massive collapse of earth and debris, burying homes, damaging infrastructure and cutting off access roads. Emergency responders were immediately deployed to conduct search-and-rescue operations, evacuate residents and provide relief to affected communities.
The incident underscores the persistent threat posed by heavy seasonal rainfall in China’s mountainous regions despite continued investments in disaster preparedness and early warning systems.
