Nigeria condoles Colombia over deadly 7.4-magnitude earthquake

Abdullateef Fowewe

Nigeria has expressed condolences to Colombia following a devastating magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck the western part of the country on August 10, 2026, killing more than 100 people and causing extensive damage.

In a statement issued by Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Federal Government described the disaster as a major tragedy and expressed solidarity with the Colombian people during the period of national mourning.

“The Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria express profound sorrow and deepest sympathy to the Government and people of the Republic of Colombia,” the statement said.

The earthquake, described as the strongest recorded in Colombia this century, damaged homes, hospitals, schools and critical infrastructure in several regions, including Chocó, Valle del Cauca and Risaralda.

It was gathered that rescue workers were searching through collapsed buildings as the death toll continued to rise.

Nigeria also extended its condolences to families who lost loved ones and wished those injured “a swift and full recovery.”

“Nigeria stands in full solidarity with the people of Colombia during this period of national mourning and recovery,” the ministry said.

The Nigerian government expressed confidence in Colombia’s ability to overcome the disaster, praising the “resilience, unity, and determination” of its people and the leadership of President Abelardo de la Espriella.

It said Colombia’s government was undertaking search-and-rescue operations and beginning the process of rebuilding affected communities.

The statement concluded with the words, “May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace.”