Tinubu mourns fallen Air Force personnel, says sacrifice won’t be forgotten

President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to Nigerian Air Force personnel who tragically perished in an aircraft crash, assuring the nation that their sacrifice will forever be remembered. In a statement on his verified X account, the President expressed deep sorrow over the loss, emphasizing the daily risks Air Force personnel take to safeguard the country.

"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," he said. The President also extended condolences to the families of the deceased, acknowledging that the grief extends beyond the military to their loved ones.

"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," Tinubu stated. He declared three days of national mourning and ordered flags to be flown at half-mast across the country. The Chief of Air Staff had briefed Tinubu on the incident, following which the President directed the Nigerian Air Force to conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause of the crash and prevent similar incidents in the future.

Tinubu also commended the Air Force for swiftly activating a search and rescue operation. "We honor their service. We remember their sacrifice. May the souls of our departed heroes rest in peace," he added.