Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has expressed deep sorrow over the crash of a Nigerian Air Force aircraft that claimed the lives of military personnel and civilians on board.
The aircraft, identified as NAF 931, was on a routine flight from Benin City, Edo State, to Lagos when it crashed near Igbokoda in Ondo State.
“The loss of these valiant patriots is an irreparable blow not only to the military high command and their comrades-in-arms, but to the entire Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
Musa described the deaths as an irreparable loss to the Armed Forces and the country, commending the personnel for their service and commitment to national defence.
The minister extended condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Armed Forces, and the families, colleagues and loved ones of those who died in the incident.
“We pray that the Almighty God grants the souls of the departed eternal repose, and gives their families, the military community, and all Nigerians the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” he said.
He also expressed sympathy to the families of the civilians who were on board the aircraft.
Musa disclosed that a comprehensive investigation had been ordered to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash and strengthen safety measures across military aviation units.
He prayed for the repose of the deceased and for strength for their families and the wider military community as they mourn the loss.
