The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has expressed profound sadness over the crash of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 aircraft in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The aircraft, which had 32 personnel on board, comprising 25 officers and seven crew members, was on a routine operational mission from Benin to Lagos when the incident occurred on Monday.
Matawalle described the crash as a tragic loss to the Armed Forces of Nigeria, saying the death of personnel in the line of duty underscored the risks and sacrifices associated with military service.
In a condolence message, the minister said the loss of the personnel was a painful reminder of the sacrifices routinely made by members of the Armed Forces in the service of the nation.
He said: “The loss of these gallant personnel in the course of active service to our fatherland is a profound tragedy and a painful reminder of the sacrifices routinely made by members of our Armed Forces in the service of the nation.”
Matawalle commended the courage and dedication of the personnel involved, assuring their families and colleagues that their service to Nigeria would not be forgotten.
He extended condolences to the bereaved families, the Nigerian Air Force and the entire Armed Forces, saying he joined President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, in mourning the deceased.
The minister prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed personnel and for strength and fortitude for their families, colleagues and loved ones to bear the loss.
Matawalle also reaffirmed the commitment of the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces to personnel safety, operational standards and the continued discharge of their constitutional responsibilities in defence of the nation.
