President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared three days of national mourning in honour of Nigerian Air Force personnel who lost their lives in an aircraft crash while serving the country.
The President, in a statement, described the incident as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the entire nation, commending the courage and sacrifice of Air Force personnel who continually put their lives on the line to protect Nigeria.
PBAT directed that national flags be flown at half-mast across the country throughout the mourning period as a mark of respect for the fallen military personnel. He also expressed solidarity with the families of the deceased, noting that behind every military uniform is a family waiting for their loved one to return home.
“Behind every uniform is a family. A spouse, a child, a parent, a brother or sister who expected their loved one home. Nigeria grieves with them,” the President said.
President Tinubu disclosed that the Chief of 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 what led to the accident and help prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The President also commended the Nigerian Air Force for promptly activating a search and rescue operation following the crash.
PBAT honoured the fallen personnel for their service and sacrifice, assuring that their contributions to the defence of the nation would not be forgotten.
“We honour their service. We remember their sacrifice,” the President said, praying for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed heroes.
The President reaffirmed the nation’s solidarity with the families, colleagues and loved ones of the fallen Air Force personnel during this period of national mourning.