Abuja:A sombre atmosphere gripped the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) headquarters as officers, airmen, and staff mourned the 25 victims of the NAF 931 aircraft crash in Ondo State.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, expressed the deep pain felt by the NAF and the nation. Tributes from military personnel and civilians highlighted the grief shared for the fallen.
Retired Air Vice Marshal Christian Chukwu described the event as a period of mourning for Nigerians, stating that both the military and the nation are saddened by the loss. Chukwu reminisced about a previous incident that cost the lives of over 160 officers and emphasized the importance of waiting for investigations rather than speculating on the incident’s cause.
Chukwu noted the air force’s commitment to safety, attending numerous safety seminars even post-retirement. He expressed condolences to the Chief of the Air Staff and President Bola Tinubu, acknowledging their efforts in supporting the air force.
Military Contractor Ehije Balogun termed the crash unfortunate, emphasizing the significant loss of life. He urged President Tinubu to increase funding for the air force to aid in aircraft maintenance, noting the crucial roles the air force plays beyond logistical tasks, including rescue operations and combating terrorism.