A Nigerian national, Jubril Akorede Abdulrahman, has been confirmed alive and recovering after being caught in a devastating gas explosion at the Barzan Gas Supply Facility in Ras Laffan, Qatar, on Sunday, June 21, 2026.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) announced his discharge from the hospital, with Mr. Abdulrahman now recuperating at accommodation provided by his employer.
The incident, which occurred at approximately 10:30 pm local time, prompted immediate action from Nigeria’s Ambassador to Qatar, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.
His swift intervention ensured that Mr. Abdulrahman’s condition was closely monitored and that the Nigerian government remained informed throughout the ordeal.
Qatar Energy, operators of the facility, confirmed in a press conference on June 22, 2026, that the explosion was accidental, ruling out sabotage or hostility.
The facility had recently resumed operations after a planned shutdown that began in December 2025. Emergency response teams from Qatar Energy and Qatar Civil Defence quickly brought the ensuing fire under control.
The explosion resulted in injuries to 66 individuals, none of whom are in life-threatening condition. The injured include nationals from Qatar, Nigeria, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, India, and Nepal.
Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NiDCOM, expressed profound relief at the news of Mr. Abdulrahman’s recovery. “We are glad that Jubril Abdulrahman is recovering and in safe hands. Our prayers are with him and with everyone still receiving treatment,” she stated.
Dabiri-Erewa urged Qatar Energy to continue providing support to all injured workers, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that Mr. Abdulrahman and others receive comprehensive care throughout their recovery.
NiDCOM also lauded Ambassador Yakubu for his prompt and unwavering dedication, highlighting his actions as a testament to the dedicated consular service Nigerians abroad are entitled to expect.
