The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged Nigerians to use the three-day national mourning period declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reflect on the sacrifices of the Armed Forces and uphold patriotism, national unity and respect for national symbols.
Director-General of the Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, made the call while commiserating with the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and families of personnel who lost their lives in the tragic aircraft crash in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
Issa-Onilu described the incident as a painful moment for the nation, saying the fallen personnel demonstrated courage, discipline, patriotism and unwavering commitment to national service.
He said their sacrifice in protecting the country would not be forgotten, stressing that their dedication to the nation remained worthy of honour and remembrance.
The NOA boss said the Agency would intensify efforts to ensure proper observance of the national flag during the mourning period, in line with the President’s directive that the flag be flown at half-mast.
According to him, the national flag remains a powerful symbol of Nigeria’s sovereignty, unity and shared identity, urging citizens to observe the mourning period with the dignity and respect befitting the sacrifice of the fallen personnel.
The DG also commiserated with the Chief of the Air Staff, officers and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force, assuring the military of NOA’s solidarity as it mourns colleagues who paid the supreme price in service to the nation.
Issa-Onilu extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased personnel, acknowledging the pain of losing loved ones who were serving the country and praying that God would grant them strength and comfort.
He further called on Nigerians to uphold patriotism, national unity and respect for the country’s symbols, while using the period of mourning to appreciate the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces in defending the nation.
“May God grant the departed souls and their families, colleagues and the entire Nigerian Air Force the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss” Issa-Onilu said.
The DG reaffirmed NOA’s commitment to promoting national values, civic responsibility and proper respect for national symbols across the country.
