The Prayer and Support for Nigerian Armed Forces and Other Security Agencies (PSNAFSA) has expressed grief over the death of personnel of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and other victims of the aircraft crash at Igbokoda in Ondo State.
In a statement signed by its Convener, Ambassador Mary Abayomi-Fatile, PSNAFSA commiserated with the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Nigerian Air Force and the families, colleagues and friends of those who died in the incident.
The organisation described the crash as a painful loss, noting that it had once again highlighted the risks routinely faced by personnel of the Armed Forces and other security agencies while carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.
PSNAFSA said it stood with the Nigerian Air Force family and all those affected by the tragedy, while acknowledging the courage, dedication and sacrifices of personnel serving the country.
According to the organisation, the loss represents not only a major setback for the Nigerian Air Force but also a devastating tragedy for the families, colleagues, friends and communities left behind by the victims.
It called for sustained investment in the Armed Forces and other security agencies, particularly in intelligence, equipment, logistics, communications, aviation safety and personnel welfare.
PSNAFSA also urged the relevant authorities to continue strengthening the operational capacity of the nation’s security agencies by providing appropriate platforms, equipment and resources needed to enable personnel perform their duties safely and effectively.
The organisation stressed that supporting those who protect the nation remained a collective responsibility, adding that security personnel should not be left to confront increasingly complex threats without adequate institutional, operational and public support.
It appealed to Nigerians to remain conscious of the sacrifices made by security personnel, particularly those who pay the ultimate price in the service of the country.
“Behind every fallen personnel is a family left to cope with the consequences of such loss,” the organisation said, stressing the need for greater public appreciation of the sacrifices made by members of the security agencies.
PSNAFSA prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed and for God to grant their families, colleagues and friends the strength to bear the loss. It also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Armed Forces and other security agencies while promoting public confidence, understanding and stronger partnerships between security personnel and the communities they serve.