By Joy Odor Reportcircle News
The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed deep sorrow over the deadly collapse of the Rubaya Coltan Mine in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a disaster that has claimed more than 200 lives and left scores injured, throwing entire communities into mourning.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) on Thursday, Nigeria said it received the news of the tragedy with profound grief, describing the incident as one of the most devastating mining disasters in the region in recent times.
Speaking on behalf of the Government and people of Nigeria, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, OON, extended heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with particular sympathy for the families who lost loved ones in the collapse.
“The thoughts and prayers of the Government and people of Nigeria are with the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo at this difficult time,” the statement said.
According to reports referenced by Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Ministry, the Rubaya mine collapsed following heavy rainfall, trapping artisanal miners and nearby residents beneath rubble and debris.
The disaster has once again exposed the extreme dangers faced by vulnerable communities in mineral-rich regions where informal and unsafe mining practices remain widespread.
Abuja noted that the scale of the tragedy highlights the humanitarian challenges confronting resource-dependent communities, where livelihoods are often pursued at grave personal risk due to poor safety standards and lack of regulation.
Nigeria also conveyed its deep sympathy to the injured, praying for their quick recovery and expressing concern for communities still grappling with shock and loss.
The Federal Government commended the local authorities and emergency responders in the DRC for their efforts in rescuing victims, providing urgent medical care and working to stabilize affected areas despite difficult conditions.
“Nigeria stands in solidarity with the Democratic Republic of the Congo,” the statement emphasized, reaffirming Abuja’s support for humanitarian efforts aimed at alleviating suffering in the aftermath of the disaster.
The condolence message underscores Nigeria’s commitment to African solidarity in moments of crisis, as well as its recognition of the shared challenges facing nations across the continent, particularly in balancing natural resource exploitation with human safety.
As mourning continues in Rubaya and surrounding communities, Nigeria said it remains united with the Congolese people, offering prayers, compassion and diplomatic support during what it described as a moment of immense national grief.
