Bomba Dauda
Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic crash of a Nigerian military aircraft, tail number NAF 931, which claimed the lives of military personnel and civilians on board.
In a statement issued in Abuja, General Musa, on behalf of the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces of Nigeria, described the incident as a painful loss to the nation, saying the victims were dedicated personnel who died while carrying out their duties in service to Nigeria.
He said the fallen officers and airmen exemplified the highest standards of military professionalism, loyalty and commitment to the defence of the country.
The Defence Minister extended condolences to President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the military high command, colleagues of the deceased and, most importantly, the immediate families and loved ones of the victims.
“Our hearts also go out to the families of the civilians on board the ill-fated aircraft. We share your grief,” he said.
General Musa disclosed that a comprehensive investigation had been ordered to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash and establish its cause.
He added that the investigation would also help ensure that all necessary operational safety protocols were reinforced across Nigeria’s military aviation units.
The Minister prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed and for God to grant their families, the military community and Nigerians the fortitude to bear the loss.
