By Ifueko Blessing Osayande

The Federal Government has expressed deep sorrow over the death of a Nigerian medical graduate, Miss Nnani Adaobi Marian, who reportedly died from injuries sustained during a Russian aerial attack in Kharkiv, Ukraine.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the government said it received with “profound sadness” the news of the death of the 23-year-old graduate of Kharkiv National Medical University.

According to the ministry, Marian “reportedly succumbed to injuries sustained during a Russian aerial attack in Kharkiv, Ukraine.”

The government extended its condolences to the deceased’s family and all those affected by the tragedy.

“The Federal Government extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends, colleagues, and the Nigerian community affected by this tragic loss,” the statement stated.

It added that the ministry was already engaging relevant authorities and Nigeria’s diplomatic missions to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident and support the 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 added.

The government also used the occasion to reiterate its concern over the humanitarian consequences of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, particularly the 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 stated.

It further urged all parties involved in the conflict to pursue peaceful means of resolving their differences.

“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 statement said.

The ministry reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the welfare and protection of its citizens abroad, assuring that developments would continue to be closely monitored while necessary support is provided through the country’s diplomatic missions.