The Federal Ministry of Defence has expressed deep sorrow over the crash of a military aircraft, tail number NAF 931, which claimed the lives of military personnel and civilians on board.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the ministry described the incident as a painful loss to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the nation. The victims were said to have been on a routine flight mission at the time of the crash.
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, said the deceased officers and airmen served the country with courage, dedication and patriotism, noting that their deaths represent an irreparable loss to the military and Nigeria as a whole.
He extended condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, the leadership of the Armed Forces, as well as the families, loved ones and colleagues of the deceased personnel.
The minister also sympathised with the families of the civilians who were on board the aircraft, saying the government shares in their grief.
According to a statement signed by the minister, a comprehensive investigation has been ordered to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash and to ensure that all necessary operational safety protocols are strengthened across military aviation units.
General Musa prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and asked for divine comfort and strength for their families, the military community and all Nigerians affected by the tragedy.
