The Canada High Commission in Abuja was hit by an explosion, leading to the death of two individuals and the injury of two others. The incident, which occurred on Monday, prompted a swift response from the Canadian government as it launched an investigation into the matter.
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The Canadian Foreign Minister, Melanie Joly, expressed her condolences for the victims of the explosion in a brief statement released on X.
“We can confirm there was an explosion at our High Commission in Nigeria. The fire is out and we are working to shed light on what caused this situation. I send my heartfelt condolences to the families of the 2 people killed in this tragedy,” she said.
We can confirm there was an explosion at our High Commission in Nigeria. The fire is out and we are working to shed light on what caused this situation.
I send my heartfelt condolences to the families of the 2 people killed in this tragedy.
— Mélanie Joly (@melaniejoly) November 6, 2023
The High Commission, following the catastrophic event, announced the temporary suspension of its operations until further notice.
Amidst the aftermath, Canada, in solidarity with the United States and the United Kingdom, issued a travel advisory cautioning against nonessential travel to Nigeria, citing the pervasive security concerns encompassing terrorism, crime, inter-communal clashes, armed assaults, and kidnappings throughout the country, including the capital city, Abuja.
President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria extended his sympathies to the Canadian government and the affected individuals in a statement conveyed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu sympathises with the Canadian government, the diplomatic community, and all persons affected by a fire incident which occurred on Monday at the Canadian High Commission in Abuja.
“The President assures the Canadian authorities of the full support of the Nigerian government in the aid of diplomatic and local staff of the High Commission who were particularly affected by the incident.
“President Tinubu prays for the repose of the departed souls and wishes all injured persons a rapid and full recovery,” the statement read.
