Qatar’s top leadership has expressed condolences to President Bola Tinubu and the people of Nigeria following the fatal Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash in Ondo State.
The condolence messages were conveyed through official cables from Qatar’s Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani; Deputy Amir, Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Thani; and Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani.
The Qatari leaders extended their sympathies over the loss of lives in the military aircraft accident, which occurred near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft crashed on October 5 while travelling from Benin to Lagos on a routine mission.
The incident prompted an outpouring of condolences from Nigerian officials and international partners, while President Tinubu directed the Air Force to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The President also declared a three-day national mourning period for the deceased military personnel and ordered that national flags be flown at half-mast as a mark of respect.
Qatar’s message reflects the diplomatic ties between both countries, which have continued to pursue cooperation in areas including energy, agriculture, investment and labour mobility.
The expression of sympathy from Qatar’s leadership adds to the international support extended to Nigeria and the families affected by the tragedy.
