The Canadian High Commission in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, was engulfed in a fire outbreak, leading to the deaths of two people and injuries to others.
The incident, which took place on Monday, was confirmed by the Canadian Foreign Minister, Melanie Joly.
Confirming the incident, she said that “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 two people killed in this tragedy,” she said.
In a separate statement, the High Commission confirmed that it would be “temporarily” suspending its operations.
The statement did not confirm when the Canadian High Commission hopes to resume operations.
Speaking further on the issue, the commission decried the insecurity in Nigeria, stating that terrorism, kidnapping, communal conflicts, and armed attacks confirm “the unpredictable security situation throughout the country.”
The high commission issued a travel advisory to its citizens, warning them against traveling to Nigeria, especially its capital, Abuja.
The government of Nigeria has since communicated its sympathy to the high commission and the victims, while assuring them of the country’s resolve to ensure their safety.
The statement was conveyed through the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale.
Speaking to the media, Ngelale stated that “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu sympathizes with the Canadian government, the diplomatic community, and all persons affected by a fire incident that occurred on Monday at the Canadian High Commission in Abuja.”
The high commission has confirmed that an investigation into the cause of the fire, which according to some reports was caused by an explosion, has begun.
