Nigeria Sympathises with Southern African Countries Affected by Devastating Floods
Oru Leonard
The Federal Republic of Nigeria has expressed its sincere condolences to the government and people of South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe following the tragic loss of life in the recent devastating floods that have claimed the lives of more than one hundred persons and displaced thousands across parts of Southern Africa, following weeks of torrential rainfall.
This contained in a release signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Spokesperson of MFA on Sunday, 18 January 2026.
“Nigeria commiserates with the affected countries over the immense human and material losses arising from the floods, which have overwhelmed rivers, damaged roads and bridges, displaced large populations, and disrupted agricultural production and essential services. Nigeria also notes with concern the secondary humanitarian impacts, including food insecurity, disease outbreaks, and the heightened vulnerability of women, children, and other at-risk populations.
“The Government of Nigeria expresses solidarity with the 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.
“Nigeria further underscores the growing threat posed by climate-related extreme weather events across Africa. It reiterates the importance of strengthened regional cooperation, early-warning systems, climate adaptation strategies, and sustained international support to mitigate the humanitarian and developmental consequences of such disasters”, he stated
Nigeria assures the affected countries of its continued goodwill and support and reaffirms its commitment to cooperation with affected countries at bilateral, regional, and multilateral levels in promoting disaster preparedness, humanitarian response, and climate resilience.
“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”, the release concluded.
About the Floods.
Southern Africa is experiencing devastating floods, with over 200 people dead and thousands displaced across the region. South Africa, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe are among the worst-affected countries, with heavy rainfall and overflowing rivers causing widespread destruction.
In South Africa, at least 30 people have died, and thousands have been displaced, particularly in Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces. The government has declared a national disaster, allowing for coordinated relief efforts. The floods have damaged infrastructure, including roads and bridges, and submerged critical areas like Kruger National Park.
Mozambique is also severely affected, with over 200,000 people impacted and 103 deaths reported. The country’s limited resources are being stretched, with widespread damage to farmland and infrastructure.
Zimbabwe has reported 70 deaths and over 1,000 homes destroyed, with schools, roads, and bridges also affected.
The floods are attributed to a combination of heavy rainfall, La Niña conditions, and climate change. The region is prone to extreme weather events, and the current situation highlights the need for improved disaster preparedness and response.
Photo Credit: IRIN
