The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has ordered an investigation into the fatal military aircraft crash that claimed the lives of several “brave officers and airmen”.

“A comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate crash has been ordered to ascertain the cause and ensure all necessary operational safety protocols are reinforced across our military aviation units,” Musa said in a statement issued on Monday.

Describing the incident as one that had left him with a “profound sense of grief and heavy heart”, the defence minister said the loss of the personnel was devastating to the military and the country.

“The loss of these valiant patriots is an irreparable blow not only to the military high command and their comrades-in-arms, but to the entire Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“These fine officers and men exemplify the highest standards of military professionalism, loyalty, and commitment to the defence of our Fatherland.”

Musa extended “our heartfelt condolences to His Excellency, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the leadership of the Armed Forces, and most especially, the immediate families, loved ones, and colleagues of our fallen heroes”.

He added: “We share in your immense grief and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with you during this tragic hour.”

“Our hearts also go out to the families of the civilians on board the ill-fated aircraft; we share your grief,” the minister said.

“We pray that the Almighty God grants the souls of the departed eternal repose and gives their families, the military community, and all Nigerians the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” he added.

Already, President Tinubu has ordered three days of national mourning, while extending his condolences to the families of the bereaved and the Nigerian Air Force over the fatal crash.

The President directed that flags be flown at half-mast throughout the country as a mark of respect for the fallen officers.

The aircraft was on a “routine mission” from Benin City, Edo State, to Lagos when it crashed at Igbokoda in Ondo State shortly after 9:00 am (0800 GMT), according to the President and the Nigerian Air Force.

“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,” Tinubu said in a statement issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga.