The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, MON, has reaffirmed the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to strengthening operational safety and protecting military personnel following the Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 crash in Ondo State.
The crash, which occurred on October 5 near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of the state, claimed the lives of 25 officers and seven crew members aboard the aircraft.
The ATR-42 was conducting a routine operational mission from Benin to Lagos when the incident occurred.
In a condolence message issued on October 6, Matawalle described the crash as a deeply tragic loss to the Armed Forces of Nigeria, saying it underscored the risks and sacrifices inherent in military service.
He honoured the courage, dedication and service of the personnel who lost their lives and extended his condolences to their families, colleagues, comrades and loved ones.
The minister also joined President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, in expressing condolences to the bereaved families, the Nigerian Air Force and the wider Armed Forces community.
Matawalle said the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces remained committed to preserving the lives of personnel, maintaining the highest standards of operational safety and fulfilling their constitutional responsibilities in defence of Nigeria.
He said the loss served as a reminder of the sacrifices routinely made by members of the Armed Forces in the service of the nation.
He prayed for the eternal rest of the departed personnel and for strength for their families, colleagues and loved ones to bear the loss.
The statement was issued by Queeneth Iheoma-Hart, Chief Information Officer, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence.
