In a solemn announcement, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared three days of national mourning for the Air Force personnel who tragically lost their lives in a plane crash on Monday. This decision was communicated by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.

The ill-fated aircraft, a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 jet, was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when it crashed near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State. The aircraft was carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members at the time of the incident.

Expressing his deep sorrow over the loss, President Tinubu stated, "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." The President extended his condolences to the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and all members of the Nigerian Air Force.

In his message, Tinubu emphasized the importance of understanding the circumstances surrounding the crash, directing the Nigerian Air Force to conduct a thorough investigation to ascertain the cause and prevent similar tragedies in the future. He commended the Air Force for its prompt response, which included activating a search and rescue operation immediately following the accident.

As a mark of respect for the deceased officers, President Tinubu has ordered that flags be flown at half-mast across the country. The Air Force has indicated that it will release the names of the personnel involved in the crash after notifying their families.

This tragic event has cast a shadow over the nation, highlighting the risks faced by military personnel in their duty to protect and serve Nigeria. The President's declaration of mourning serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those in uniform and the collective grief felt across the country during this difficult time.