- Safiu Kehinde
President Bola Tinubu has mourned victims of the tragic air collision better a passenger jet and a military helicopter at Washington DC, United States.
The Nigerian President expressed his condolences to families of the victims while.commending first responders and emergency teams for their quick intervention.
As contained in a post on his official X handle on Thursday, Tinubu expressed Nigeria’s solidarity with the US government.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic incident in Washington, D.C.
“On behalf of Nigeria, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the people of the United States, and all affected by this profound loss. I commend the courageous efforts of first responders and emergency teams for their selfless work in harsh conditions.
“Nigeria stands in solidarity with the United States Government and its People, united in grief and hopeful for a new day,” Tinubu wrote.
NPO reported that the incident occured early hours of Thursday as the Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet conveying 60 passengers collided with the Black Hawk military helicopter while approaching the runway.
According to report, the crashed plane split in half in the Potomac River with boats and divers now searching for people.
At least, 30 bodies have been recovered from the river was reportedly icy.
Some of the victims have been identified as US and Russian ice skaters as governing body confirmed the involvement of several athletes, coaches, and family members.
Kremlin also confirmed the presence of Russian citizens on board among which include former world champions, Yevgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov.