Nigeria Condoles China Over Deadly Fireworks Factory Explosion

The Federal Government has expressed sympathy with the Government and people of China following a fatal explosion at a fireworks factory in Hunan Province that left several people dead and others injured.

The condolence message was conveyed in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, who described the incident as a tragic loss of lives and property.

According to the statement, the explosion occurred in Liuyang City, a major centre for fireworks production, where an industrial facility was engulfed by a powerful blast that triggered widespread destruction in the surrounding area.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria extends heartfelt condolences to the Government and People of the People’s Republic of China following the tragic explosion at a fireworks factory in Liuyang City, Hunan Province,” the statement read.

Reports indicated that at least 21 people lost their lives in the incident, with several others sustaining varying degrees of injuries, while emergency responders evacuated nearby residents to prevent further casualties.

The explosion, which occurred at a local fireworks manufacturing plant, also caused significant damage to buildings and disrupted activities in the industrial hub known globally for its fireworks exports.

Nigeria commended Chinese authorities for their swift response to the disaster, noting that emergency teams were promptly deployed to the scene to contain the situation and provide assistance to victims.

“Nigeria commends the swift deployment of emergency personnel and ongoing rescue operations aimed at saving lives and mitigating further risks,” the statement added.

The government further expressed solidarity with affected families and communities, acknowledging the pain and hardship caused by the tragedy.

“Nigeria expresses its deepest sympathies to the bereaved families, the injured, and all those affected by this tragic event,” Ebienfa stated.

Reaffirming diplomatic ties, Nigeria said it stands with China during this period of mourning, describing the incident as a moment that calls for global compassion and unity.

“The Government and people of Nigeria stand in solidarity with the people of China during this difficult time,” the statement noted.

It also reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with China, stressing that the bond between both countries extends beyond economic cooperation to mutual support in times of crisis.

“At this moment of grief, Nigeria reaffirms its enduring friendship with China and its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, both in times of progress and adversity,” the statement added.

Chinese authorities are expected to continue investigations into the cause of the explosion, as well as review safety protocols in the fireworks manufacturing sector, which has witnessed similar industrial accidents in the past.