The government of Türkiye has condoled with Nigeria over the aircraft crash in Ondo, which killed 25 military men.

The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs conveyed the condolences in a statement posted on social media on Tuesday.

The ministry said it was deeply saddened by the loss of lives resulting from the military aircraft crash in Ondo State on October 5.

“We extend our condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this tragic accident and to the people of Nigeria,” the ministry said.

The aircraft, with tail number NGR 931, was reportedly flying from Benin City, Edo, to Lagos when it disappeared from radar at about 9:13 a.m. on Monday.

It subsequently crashed near the Igbokoda Naval Base in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.

Nigerian Air Force spokesman Ehimen Ejodame said the aircraft had 25 people aboard, including five crew members and 20 passengers.

Mr Ejodame said no survivors were found after the crash.

President Bola Tinubu declared three days of national mourning in honour of the deceased personnel and directed that the national flag be flown at half-mast nationwide.

The Turkish condolence message adds to expressions of solidarity with Nigeria following the tragedy, as authorities continue efforts to establish the circumstances that led to the crash.

(NAN)