Nigeria Commiserates with South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe Over Deadly Floods

The Federal Government has commiserated with the governments and peoples of South Africa, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe following the loss of lives caused by devastating floods currently affecting the countries.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed sympathy over the extensive human and material losses recorded as a result of the floods.

“Nigeria notes with deep concern the secondary humanitarian impacts of the floods, including food insecurity, disease outbreaks, and the heightened vulnerability of women, children, and other at-risk populations,” the ministry said.

The statement, signed by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, added that Nigeria stands in solidarity with ongoing rescue, evacuation, and relief efforts being undertaken by national authorities, regional institutions, and international humanitarian partners.

“We also acknowledge the resilience and resolve of the affected countries as they respond to this natural disaster and begin the process of recovery and rebuilding,” it read.

Climate Change Concerns

The Federal Government further expressed concern over the growing threat of climate-related extreme weather events across Africa.

It stressed the need for strengthened regional cooperation, improved early-warning systems, effective climate adaptation strategies, and sustained international support to mitigate the humanitarian and developmental consequences of such disasters.

“Nigeria assures the affected countries of its continued goodwill and support and reaffirms its commitment to cooperation at bilateral, regional, and multilateral levels in promoting disaster preparedness, humanitarian response, and climate resilience,” the statement added.

“The thoughts and prayers of the Government and people of Nigeria are with the Governments and people of South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and all other affected countries during this difficult period.”

South Africa Declares National Disaster

Meanwhile, South Africa on Sunday declared a national disaster after widespread flooding destroyed homes, displaced thousands, and claimed dozens of lives, forcing many residents to seek shelter in neighbouring Mozambique.

Reports indicate that the floods have killed over 100 people as of Friday and displaced thousands across parts of  Southern Africa, following weeks of torrential rainfall that have left entire communities cut off.

Weather services across the region have issued further alerts, raising fears of more flooding.

The floods have overwhelmed rivers, damaged roads and bridges, disrupted agricultural production and essential services, and displaced large populations, with several communities now inaccessible.