President Bola Tinubu has mourned the Nigerian Air Force personnel who died in an aircraft crash in Ondo State, declaring that their sacrifice to the nation will never be forgotten.

In a statement posted on his verified X handle on Tuesday, Tinubu described the incident as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the entire country.

The President said the personnel risked their lives daily to protect Nigeria, adding that the nation shared the grief of the families of the deceased.

Tinubu declared three days of national mourning and directed that the Nigerian flag be flown at half-mast across the country in honour of the fallen personnel.

He said the Chief of Air Staff had briefed him on the incident and directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the crash and prevent future occurrences.

The President also commended the Nigerian Air Force for activating search and rescue operations following the accident.

He prayed for the souls of the deceased personnel and described them as fallen heroes who served the nation with dedication.