President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a three-day national mourning for Nigerian Air Force personnel who died in an aircraft crash in Ondo State.
The President also directed that flags be flown at half-mast across the country as a mark of respect for the fallen officers.
The Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft crashed on Monday near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State while on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos.
The aircraft was carrying 25 passengers and 7 crew members when the accident occurred.
In a condolence message to the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and officers, airmen and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force, President Tinubu described the incident as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the nation.
The President said Nigerian Air Force personnel put their lives on the line every day to secure the country, adding that their sacrifice would not be forgotten.
President Tinubu said the Chief of Air Staff had briefed him on the incident and directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash to prevent future occurrences.
He also commended the Air Force for activating an immediate search and rescue operation following the accident.
The Nigerian Air Force is expected to release the names of the personnel who died after their families have been contacted.