Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has expressed his condolence message following the death of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Ibrahim Attahiru, and other officers of the Nigerian military who passed away on Friday.

WUZUPNIGERIA reported that the 11 victims died instantly after their ill-fated plane crashed at the Kaduna International Airport around 6pm.

Reacting to the news on Saturday via his verified Twitter handle, Osinbajo said that he “received with great sadness the news of an air crash involving” Attahiru and others.

According to the vice president, the country will honour the services of all victims of the fatal plane crash.

He said: “Their death while in active service in the defense of our country reflects the depth of sacrifice our military officers, men and women of the other ranks are often prepared to make.

“We honour the service of the Army Chief and all those involved in this unfortunate accident even as we continue to demonstrate our profound appreciation to all in our military services and in harm’s way. The gallantry of our heroes will always be remembered.

“I join the President and CIC of the Nigerian Armed Forces to commiserate with families, friends and colleagues of these gallant officers and men who died in the crash. I pray that God grants them the fortitude to bear the loss. May the memories of the departed remain ever blessed.”