Nigeria Mourns 21 Dead in China Landslide, Reaffirms Strategic Ties with Beijing

The Federal Government has extended condolences to China following a deadly landslide in Gansu Province that killed at least 21 people, while using the moment to reaffirm the strong strategic partnership between Abuja and Beijing.

In a statement, on Wednesday, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa said Nigeria stands in solidarity with the government and people of China as rescue operations continue in Tanchang County.

The disaster struck on Tuesday, July 7, in the mountainous area of northwestern China’s Gansu Province.

Heavy rainfall triggered a collapse of earth and debris that buried homes and cut off roads. Emergency teams were immediately deployed to search for survivors, evacuate residents and deliver relief to affected communities.

“Nigeria mourns the loss of lives in this disaster, which has claimed at least 21 lives, with others affected amid the rescue operations,” Ebienfa said.

“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.”

He also commended Chinese authorities for their rapid response.

“Nigeria commends the swift response of the Chinese authorities and rescue teams in their efforts to save lives and provide relief to those impacted.”

Beyond the humanitarian message, Nigeria underscored the depth of its relationship with China. Beijing remains one of Nigeria’s largest trading partners and a key financier of critical infrastructure, including rail lines, airport terminals, highways and power projects.

The two countries have also expanded cooperation in trade, investment, security, agriculture, technology and human capital development under their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

“Nigeria and China share a long-standing strategic partnership built on mutual respect, friendship, and cooperation,” Ebienfa stated.

“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.”

He added prayers for the victims: “We pray for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed, the speedy recovery of the injured, and strength and comfort for the bereaved families.”

The Tanchang landslide highlights the recurring risk faced by mountainous regions in China during the rainy season. While authorities have strengthened early warning and disaster response systems in recent years, extreme rainfall continues to threaten lives and infrastructure.

Nigeria’s message joins condolences from governments worldwide as China continues rescue and recovery efforts in Gansu.