The Nigerian Air Force on Thursday announced the death of five crew members on board the Mi-35M Helicopter, which crashed in combat while providing air support for ground troops in Damasak, Borno state.
The Air Force Spokesman, Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola said the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar was in Maiduguri, Borno state on Thursday to condole with families of the fallen heroes on behalf of the nationโs military personnel.
Air Commodore Daramola said: โIt is with a heavy heart that I announce the death of the 5 crew members who were on board the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Mi-35M Helicopter which crashed in combat yesterday, 2 January 2019, while providing close air support to troops of 145 Battalion, Damasak in Borno State.
โThe deceased personnel, whose remains have been recovered to Maiduguri, are:
- Flight Lieutenant Perowei Jacob โ Pilot in Command.
- Flight Lieutenant Kaltho Paul Kilyofas โ Co-Pilot.
- Sergeant Auwal Ibrahim โ Flight Technician.
- Lance Corporal Adamu Nura โ Gunner.
- Aircraftman Meshack Ishmael โ Gunner.
These gallant fallen heroes made the supreme sacrifice in the service of our Fatherland, for which the NAF, and indeed the entire Nation, owes them an unending debt of gratitude.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, on behalf all officers, airmen, airwomen and civilian staff of the NAF, commiserates with the families of the 5 fallen heroes and prays that the Almighty grants their souls peaceful repose.
The CAS was in Maiduguri today, 3 January 2019, to convey the condolences of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari, to personnel of the Air Task Force Operation LAFIYA DOLE over the unfortunate loss. While in Maiduguri, the CAS also received a condolence visit from the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai.
The NAF appreciates the overwhelming support shown by the general public to the Service over the sad incident.
We continue to solicit your understanding and support as we daily strive to ensure the security of Nigeria and Nigerians.
