Federal Government Laments Death of Nigerian Medical Graduate in Ukraine Conflict

The Nigerian Federal Government has expressed profound grief following the tragic passing of Miss Nnani Adaobi Marian, a young Nigerian medical graduate. Reports indicate that the 23-year-old succumbed to injuries sustained during a Russian aerial assault in Kharkiv, Ukraine.

In an official statement released on Tuesday, signed by Kimiebi Ebienfa, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government conveyed its “profound sadness” upon receiving news of the death of the Kharkiv National Medical University alumnus.

The government extended its deepest sympathies to the bereaved family, friends, colleagues, and the entire Nigerian community affected by this devastating incident. The statement affirmed, “The Federal Government extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends, colleagues, and the Nigerian community affected by this tragic loss.”

Furthermore, the ministry confirmed it is actively engaging relevant authorities and Nigeria's diplomatic missions in both Ukraine and Germany. This engagement aims to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding Miss Marian's death and to provide essential consular support to her 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 elaborated.

The Federal Government also seized this opportunity to reiterate its grave concerns regarding the humanitarian fallout of the ongoing hostilities in Ukraine, particularly the escalating loss of 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 declared.

Nigeria further implored all parties embroiled in the conflict to embrace peaceful avenues for resolving their differences. The statement concluded, “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 ministry reaffirmed Nigeria's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the welfare and protection of its citizens residing abroad, assuring continuous monitoring of developments and provision of necessary support through its various diplomatic missions.