President Bola Tinubu has ordered a thorough investigation into the crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 jet near a naval base in Igbokoda, Ondo State, on Monday.

The aircraft was reportedly on a routine flight from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred.

Tinubu expressed sadness over the incident and condoled with the families of the 25 passengers and seven crew members on board, as well as the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and the Nigerian Air Force.

“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.

According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said he had been briefed by the Chief of the Air Staff and directed the Air Force to immediately investigate the cause of the crash.

The President said the investigation was necessary to help prevent similar incidents in the future.

He also commended the Nigerian Air Force for promptly activating a search-and-rescue operation after the aircraft went down, as well as first responders and the Ondo State Government for their swift response at the crash site.

Tinubu prayed for the repose of the souls of those who died and asked God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the strength to bear the loss.

He further assured the Nigerian Air Force of his administration’s continued support as it carries out its role in protecting the country.