By Abubakar Ojima-ojo
The Federal Government has expressed grief over the death of Miss Nnani Adaobi Marian, a Nigerian medical graduate who lost her life after reportedly sustaining injuries during a Russian aerial bombardment in Kharkiv, Ukraine.
In a statement released on Tuesday by the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the government said it received with “profound sadness” the news of the passing of the 23-year-old graduate of Kharkiv National Medical University.
According to the ministry, Marian “reportedly succumbed to injuries sustained during a Russian aerial attack in Kharkiv, Ukraine.”
The government conveyed its sympathy to the deceased’s loved ones and members of the Nigerian community affected by the incident.
“The Federal Government extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends, colleagues, and the Nigerian community affected by this tragic loss,” the statement stated.
The ministry disclosed that it had begun working with the relevant authorities and Nigeria’s diplomatic missions to establish the full details surrounding the incident while providing support to the family.
“The Ministry is in contact with the relevant authorities as well as Nigeria’s Missions in Ukraine and Germany to verify the circumstances surrounding the incident and to provide the necessary consular assistance to the family,” the statement added.
The Federal Government also reiterated its concern over the humanitarian impact of the ongoing war in Ukraine, stressing the need to end the violence that continues to claim civilian lives.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria reiterates its deep concern over the continuing loss of civilian lives arising from the ongoing conflict and renews its call for an immediate cessation of hostilities,” the ministry stated.
It further appealed to all parties involved in the conflict to prioritise peaceful engagement over continued fighting.
“Nigeria urges all parties to embrace dialogue, diplomacy, and the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter,” the statement said.
The ministry reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding the interests and welfare of its citizens living abroad, adding that it would continue to monitor developments closely and provide necessary consular assistance through the country’s diplomatic missions.
