Nigeria condoles Algeria over deadly wildfires

Abdullateef Fowewe

Nigeria has expressed condolences to Algeria following devastating wildfires that killed at least 12 people, injured dozens and forced thousands from their homes in several northern provinces.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Federal Government said it was saddened by the scale of destruction caused by the fires in Bejaia, Jijel and Tizi Ouzou provinces, where homes, livelihoods and communities were affected amid a regional heatwave.

“The Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria extends its profound condolences to the Government and people of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria following the devastating wildfires,” the ministry said.

It noted that the blaze had “resulted in the loss of several lives, left many injured, displaced thousands of people and caused extensive damage to homes, livelihoods and communities in affected provinces.”

Nigeria also praised Algerian firefighters and emergency responders for working to contain the fires and assist affected residents.

“Nigeria commends the courage and dedication of the Algerian firefighting and emergency response teams for their efforts to contain the wildfires and mitigate their impact,” the statement added.

The ministry acknowledged efforts by Algerian authorities to provide emergency relief, saying Nigeria stood with the North African country as it responds to the disaster and begins recovery efforts.

“The Government and people of Nigeria stand in solidarity with Algeria during this difficult period,” it said, expressing hope that the fires would be brought under control quickly and that affected communities would receive support to “recover and rebuild.”

Nigeria further prayed for those killed in the disaster, strength for bereaved families and the speedy recovery of injured victims.