Tinubu Declares Three Days of Mourning for Fallen Air Force Personnel

Tinubu Declares Three Days of Mourning for Fallen Air Force Personnel

President Bola Tinubu has expressed grief over the death of Nigerian Air Force personnel in an aircraft crash, declaring three days of national mourning in their honour.

Tinubu, in a statement posted on his verified X handle on Tuesday, said the fallen personnel made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of 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,” the President said.

The President condoled with the families of the deceased, noting that the loss affected not only the military but also the loved ones who were expecting them to return home.

“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,” he said.

Tinubu said he had directed that national flags be flown at half-mast across the country throughout the mourning period.

He also disclosed that the Chief of Air Staff had briefed him on the incident and that he had ordered the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash.

“The Chief of Air Staff has briefed me, and I have directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash to prevent future occurrences,” he said.

The President further commended the Nigerian Air Force for activating search and rescue operations following the crash.

“We honour their service. We remember their sacrifice. May the souls of our departed heroes rest in peace,” Tinubu said.