By Gabriel Ameh
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has condoled with the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and families of personnel who lost their lives in the aircraft crash in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The Agency also pledged to promote proper observance of the national flag during the three-day mourning period declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
NOA Director-General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, described the incident as a painful moment for the nation, saying the fallen personnel demonstrated courage, discipline, patriotism and commitment to national service.
Issa-Onilu said their sacrifices in the service of the country would not be forgotten, stressing that their dedication to protecting Nigeria remained worthy of honour and remembrance.
Following the President’s declaration of three days of national mourning and directive for the national flag to be flown at half-mast, the NOA boss said the Agency would intensify efforts to promote proper observance of the national symbol.
He described the Nigerian flag as a powerful symbol of the country’s sovereignty, unity and shared identity, urging citizens to observe the mourning period with dignity and respect for the fallen personnel.
The NOA Director-General expressed solidarity with the Chief of the Air Staff, officers and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force as they mourn their colleagues who died in the line of duty.
He also extended condolences to the families of the deceased, acknowledging the pain of losing loved ones who were serving the country and praying for strength and comfort for them.
Issa-Onilu urged Nigerians to use the mourning period to reflect on the sacrifices of members of the Armed Forces and the responsibility of citizens to uphold patriotism, national unity and respect for national symbols.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the deceased personnel and for God to grant their families, colleagues and the Nigerian Air Force the strength to bear the loss.
The NOA reaffirmed its commitment to promoting national values, civic responsibility and proper respect for Nigeria’s national symbols across the country.
Credit: National Orientation Agency (NOA)
