President Bola Tinubu has declared a three-day national mourning for Nigerian Air Force (NAF) personnel who died in a military aircraft crash in Ondo State on Monday, October 5, 2026.
Tinubu also directed that the national flag be flown at half-mast throughout the country as a mark of respect for the deceased officers.
The president’s directive was contained in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, on Monday.
Tinubu had earlier expressed sadness over the crash involving a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft near a naval base in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
Tinubu orders investigation into Ondo NAF jet crash
The aircraft, carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members, was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when it crashed.
Tinubu stated: “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 had directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash, saying the probe should help prevent future occurrences.
The identities of the deceased personnel will be released by the NAF after their families have been notified.
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