By Stella Odueme
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has expressed condolences to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and families of personnel who died in the aircraft crash in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The agency also pledged to intensify public enlightenment on the proper observance of the national flag following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of three days of national mourning.
The Director-General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, on Tuesday, described the incident as a painful loss to the nation, saying the deceased personnel demonstrated courage, patriotism and commitment to national service.
Issa-Onilu, in a statement by the Deputy Director, Communication and Media, Paul Odenyi, said the sacrifices of the fallen officers in protecting the country would not be forgotten, stressing that their dedication to duty deserved to be honoured and remembered.
He said the agency would promote strict compliance with the President’s directive for the national flag to be flown at half-mast throughout the mourning period.
According to him, the national flag remains a symbol of Nigeria’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 also commiserated with the Chief of the Air Staff, officers and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force, assuring the military of the agency’s solidarity during the period of mourning.
He extended his condolences to the families of the deceased, acknowledging the pain arising from the loss of loved ones who died while serving the nation.
Issa-Onilu urged Nigerians to use the mourning period to reflect on the sacrifices of members of the Armed Forces and the collective responsibility of citizens to uphold patriotism, national unity and respect for national symbols.
He 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 strength to bear the loss.
The Director-General reaffirmed NOA’s commitment to promoting national values, civic responsibility and respect for Nigeria’s national symbols.