Tragedy struck the transcontinental country in the early hours of Monday and rescue operations continue amidst reports of hundreds dead and dozens more trapped.

The Nigeria Football Federation has provided a positive update regarding the contingent of the country’s footballers plying their trade in earthquake-hit Turkey.

According to the football body, all of Nigeria’s football stars in Turkey are safe and away from harm’s way following a powerful and deadly earthquake that struck the southern and central regions of the Asia-European nation.

What happened?

In the early hours of February 6, 2023, a terrible earthquake hit a few cities in Turkey and neighbouring Syria causing the death of several persons.

Many more people are believed to be trapped under rubbles following the collapse of about 6,217 buildings in ten provinces across Turkey.

Even more widespread damage has been recorded after what is said to be the deadliest earthquake to strike Turkey since the 1999 İzmit earthquake.

Several footballers have been reported missing following the tragedy with Hatayspor Vice-President Mustafa Özat confirming that Ghanaian forward Cristian Atsu was caught under the rubble. Reports suggest though that he may have been found.