An aerial photo reveals the devastation in Antakya, where buildings have collapsed following a 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck southeastern Turkey. In response to this tragedy, a special envoy led by Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mallam Muhammad Bello, has delivered a $1 million support fund to the Turkish government. This information has been confirmed by reliable sources. Bello and the envoy were received by Turkish Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Ankara.
The envoy’s visit comes in the wake of the catastrophic earthquake on February 6, which claimed the lives of approximately 50,000 individuals, including former Chelsea and Ghanaian footballer Christian Atsu. During the visit, it was noted that President Buhari was unable to personally extend his condolences due to the ongoing general elections in Nigeria. Bello presented the President’s Letter of Condolence along with a Central Bank of Nigeria Promissory note for $1 million, intended for President Recep Erdoğan. This donation represents the Government of Nigeria’s commitment to supporting ongoing humanitarian efforts aimed at alleviating the effects of the earthquake.
In his remarks, the Turkish Foreign Affairs Minister explained that President Erdoğan could not personally meet the special envoy due to his responsibilities in overseeing humanitarian efforts in the eleven provinces affected by the earthquake. He expressed gratitude to President Buhari, the Federal Government, and the people of Nigeria for their solidarity and support during this challenging time. Çavuşoğlu also highlighted that Aisha Erdoğan, the President’s wife, had previously donated 10,000 blankets on behalf of the African First Ladies Forum to assist with the humanitarian efforts.
Furthermore, the Turkish Minister announced that the government has committed to rebuilding new cities with the necessary infrastructure in the disaster-stricken areas. He also wished Nigeria successful and peaceful general elections, reaffirming Turkey’s dedication to conducting its own upcoming general election on June 18, 2023, in accordance with the country’s Constitution, despite the devastating impact of the earthquake.
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