KEY POINTS
- Five NAF personnel died in a vehicle-truck collision.
- They were heading to a sports event in Abuja.
- The Air Force is offering support to the bereaved families.
At least five Nigerian Air Force personnel died in a car crash along the Jos-Akwanga Expressway, authorities confirmed.
Personnel die in tragic road accident on Jos-Akwanga Expressway
The crash occurred on Oct. 22 as the personnel were travelling to a sports event in Abuja. Their vehicle reportedly collided with an oncoming truck, resulting in the deaths.
In a statement released Tuesday, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, confirmed the incident. He expressed the Air Force’s deep sorrow over the loss and noted that efforts have been initiated to support the families of the deceased.
“The Nigerian Air Force deeply regrets to announce the loss of five of our gallant personnel who were involved in a tragic road traffic accident on Oct. 22, 2024,” Akinboyewa said. “The unfortunate incident occurred around Hawan Kibo along the Jos-Akwanga Expressway. Our personnel were on their way to participate in a sporting event in Abuja when their vehicle collided with an oncoming truck.”
Akinboyewa added that the NAF has activated its statutory administrative procedures, which are designed to assist bereaved families during this difficult time, according to Punch.
Public urged to respect victims’ families and avoid unverified details
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, and the Nigerian Air Force will continue to provide them with all the necessary support in the aftermath of this tragic loss. We kindly urge the public to respect the privacy of the victims’ families and to avoid spreading unverified information regarding the incident,” he said.
He concluded by offering condolences and asking for prayers for the fallen personnel. “May their souls rest in peace.”
The identities of the victims were not immediately disclosed, and further details regarding the accident remain under investigation.
