Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Turkey, Ismail Yusuf, says no Nigerian was among the casualties of the earthquake that hit some cities in Turkey.

“We have no information of any Nigeria amongst the victims so far,” Mr Yusuf said in a telephone interview.

Mr Yusuf said the embassy was on alert to know the state of every registered Nigerian in the country.

A 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit some cities in southeastern Turkey in the early hours of Monday, with a death toll of 3,400.

Mr Yusuf said rescue efforts were ongoing, and there had been no report of any Nigerian casualty living in the affected region as of the time of speaking to journalists.

“It is too early to provide any specifics on the outcome of rescue and related matters, including census, because the seven affected cities are mostly in ruins, and many people are still trapped in several buildings.

“Furthermore, the rescue efforts are being slowed down by the seething winter, with snow everywhere,” Mr Yusuf said.

Mr Yusuf said President Muhammadu Buhari had commiserated with the government and people of Turkey, pledging Nigeria’s support and solidarity.

President Recep Erdogan had said the earthquake in Turkey was the worst disaster the country had experienced in 84 years.

The government of Turkey had declared a national emergency in the country, soliciting international aid and humanitarian assistance.

Over 3,400 people have been killed in the quake in Turkey, and thousands injured, with rescue operations still ongoing.

Over 2,000 people have also been reported dead in Syria, which was also hit by the quake. 

(NAN)