Nigeria Condoles Venezuela as Deadly Earthquakes Kill Scores

The Federal Government has expressed sympathy to the Government and people of Venezuela following the devastating twin earthquakes that struck the South American nation, killing scores of people and leaving hundreds injured.

Nigeria conveyed its condolences in a statement issued on Thursday by the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa.

The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, struck near the Venezuelan capital, Caracas, on Wednesday, causing widespread destruction, collapsing buildings and triggering a major emergency response. Authorities said at least 164 people had been confirmed dead, while 971 others sustained injuries.

The disaster prompted the Venezuelan government to declare a state of emergency as rescue workers continued searching for survivors trapped beneath rubble in several affected communities.

In its message, Nigeria said it was deeply saddened by the tragedy and the suffering inflicted on thousands of families.

“Nigeria is deeply saddened by this tragic natural disaster, which has brought immense grief and suffering to countless families and communities,” the statement said.

The Federal Government said it stands in solidarity with Venezuela during the difficult period of mourning and recovery.

It also commended emergency responders, rescue workers, medical personnel and volunteers who have been working around the clock to save lives and provide humanitarian assistance to victims.

Nigeria extended its condolences to families who lost loved ones in the disaster and wished those injured a speedy and full recovery.

The government expressed confidence that the Venezuelan people would overcome the tragedy through resilience, unity and support from the international community.

“We are confident that the resilient people of Venezuela will overcome this tragedy through unity, determination and the support of the international community,” the statement added.

Nigeria further reaffirmed its solidarity with the Venezuelan government and expressed hope that ongoing rescue, relief and reconstruction efforts would bring comfort and restoration to affected communities.

The twin tremors, regarded as among the strongest to hit Venezuela in more than a century, caused extensive damage to homes, public infrastructure and transportation facilities, with authorities warning that the casualty figure could rise as rescue operations continue.