President Bola Tinubu has extended condolences to President John Mahama, the Government, and the people of Ghana following Wednesday’s tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and six others.

Describing the incident as a profound national tragedy, President Tinubu expressed solidarity with Ghana at this time of grief, assuring the West African nation of Nigeria’s support and shared mourning.

“The thoughts and prayers of Nigerians are with the families of the deceased and the entire nation of Ghana,” the President said, adding that the departed were patriots who died in the line of selfless service to their country.

He prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed and strength and comfort for their families and all those affected by the loss.

The ill-fated helicopter, operated by the Ghana Air Force, was flying from the capital, Accra, to Obuasi in the Ashanti Region when it lost radar contact. All eight occupants on board perished in the crash.

Among the victims were also a senior national security adviser and the vice-chair of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).

In the wake of the tragedy, the Ghanaian government declared a national day of mourning, suspended all official engagements, and directed flags to be flown at half-staff in honour of the deceased.