President Bola Tinubu has expressed profound sadness over the crash of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 aircraft near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on Monday morning.
The aircraft was reportedly on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu extended his deepest condolences to the families of the 25 passengers and seven crew members involved in the crash, as well as the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and officers, airmen and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force.
The President described the incident as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the nation, noting that military personnel routinely risk their lives in the service of Nigeria.
“This is a painful moment for our Armed Forces and for the entire nation. Our Air Force personnel put their lives on the line every day to secure Nigeria. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” Tinubu said.
The President disclosed that the Chief of the Air Staff had briefed him on the incident and directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash.
He said the investigation was necessary to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident and prevent future occurrences.
Tinubu also commended the Nigerian Air Force for activating an immediate search and rescue operation following the crash.
“I pray for the repose of the souls of the gallant officers and for Almighty God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the fortitude to bear the unfortunate loss,” he said.
The President assured the Nigerian Air Force of the continued support of his administration as the service carries out its critical responsibility of securing the nation.
He also commended the swift response of first responders and the Ondo State Government at the crash site.
“ I also commend the swift response of first responders and the Ondo State Government at the crash site,” the President said.
