As Nigeria continued to mourn the personnel of the Nigerian Air Force who died in the aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has described the personnel as symbols of courage, patriotism and commitment to national service.
On Monday 5th October 2026, the country was thrown into a mournful mood after news of the Air Force Jet crash, leading to the death of 32 personnel onboard broke out.
Commiserating with the Nigerian Air Force, the families of the deceased personnel and colleagues of the fallen officers over the tragic incident, NAO Director-General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu said the loss of the personnel was a painful moment for the nation, noting that their service was characterised by courage, discipline, conviction and unwavering commitment to the protection of Nigeria.
The DG said the sacrifices made by the fallen personnel would not be forgotten, stressing that their dedication to national service remained worthy of honour and remembrance.
Issa-Onilu also expressed the Agency’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of three days of national mourning and directive for the national flag to be flown at half-mast.
He said the Agency would intensify efforts to promote proper observance of the national flag during the mourning period, noting that the flag remained a powerful symbol of Nigeria’s sovereignty, unity and shared identity.
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Issa-Onilu urged Nigerians to observe the mourning period with the dignity and respect befitting the sacrifice of the fallen personnel and to reflect on the contributions and sacrifices of members of the Armed Forces.
He commiserated with the Chief of the Air Staff, officers and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force, assuring them of the Agency’s solidarity as they mourn their colleagues who paid the supreme price in the service of the nation.
The NOA boss also extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, praying that God would grant them strength and comfort as they come to terms with the loss of their loved ones.
He called on Nigerians to use the period of mourning to renew their commitment to patriotism, national unity, civic responsibility and respect for the country’s national symbols.
Issa-Onilu prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed personnel and for God to grant their families, colleagues and the entire Nigerian Air Force the fortitude to bear the loss.
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He reaffirmed NOA’s commitment to promoting national values, civic responsibility and proper respect for national symbols across the country.
Condolence messages to the Nigerian Air Force and families of the fallen personnel have continued to pour in from within and outside the country.