The Displaced Children Foundation Canada has expressed condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of those who died in the Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State.

The Canadian charitable organisation, which focuses on humanitarian support for vulnerable children and families affected by conflict in Nigeria, said the tragedy had deeply affected its community.
In a statement issued in Calgary, Alberta, on Tuesday, the foundation said it stood in solidarity with the Nigerian

Air Force leadership, the armed forces and Nigerians during the period of national mourning.
The foundation’s founders, Joseph and Karen Ogezi, expressed sympathy with the families of the victims, saying they were facing an unimaginable loss.

“Our thoughts and fervent prayers are with the grieving families who are facing unimaginable pain today,” they said.
“We pray that they find comfort, strength and fortitude in the days ahead, and we offer our highest assurances of our continued prayers and support.”

The foundation said the crash was particularly painful for an organisation whose work is centred on supporting children and families affected by conflict and displacement in Nigeria.

It said its humanitarian activities had given it a close connection with communities dealing with the consequences of violence, displacement and loss.

The organisation also expressed solidarity with members of the Nigerian Armed Forces following the crash, which occurred in Igbokoda, Ondo State.

The statement said the foundation would continue to offer its support and prayers to affected families and communities as the country mourns the victims.

The crash occurred after air traffic controllers lost contact with a Nigerian Air Force aircraft travelling from Benin to Lagos. The aircraft was later confirmed to have crashed near the Naval Base in Igbokoda.

The Ministry of Aviation had said the wreckage was located and that search and rescue operations were underway.
The ministry also said preliminary information indicated that 25 passengers and seven crew members were on board the aircraft.
The foundation, however, referred to 25 passengers and crew members in its condolence statement. Official authorities are expected to provide further clarification on the identities and number of people who died as investigations and rescue operations continue.

The Displaced Children Foundation Canada said it was established to provide humanitarian assistance to vulnerable children affected by conflict and displacement in West Africa.

Its programmes include relief, nutrition, shelter and education support for children who have been orphaned, displaced or traumatised by violence, with a primary focus on Benue State, Nigeria.

The foundation said it remained committed to supporting affected children and families and expressed hope that the ongoing response to the aircraft crash would provide answers and support to those affected.

The organisation’s condolence message came as Nigeria mourns the victims of the military aircraft crash and authorities continue efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.