President Bola Tinubu has joined an outpouring of grief from world leaders following the devastating crash of Air India Flight 171 near Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on June 12. The London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner, carrying 242 people, crashed seconds after takeoff, resulting in one of the deadliest aviation disasters in recent history.
The aircraft slammed into a residential area housing medical professionals, causing significant loss of life both on board and on the ground. Only one survivor has been confirmed amid the wreckage.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. He extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the injured, and the entire Indian nation during this painful time. He also commiserated with the leaders of Great Britain, Portugal, and Canada, countries that lost nationals in the crash.
“The tragedy of Air India reminds us of the fragility of life and the common bond of humanity that unites us all,” Tinubu said. “Nigeria stands in solidarity with our friend and partner, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the people of India.”
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the incident as “heartbreaking beyond words” and assured that all necessary support was being provided to those affected. Other world leaders, including King Charles III and Queen Camilla, also expressed their deepest sympathies, praising the heroic efforts of emergency responders.
The crash claimed the lives of 242 people on board, including 169 Indian nationals, 53 Britons, seven Portuguese citizens, and one Canadian. The aircraft lost contact with flight tracking systems at an altitude of 625 feet shortly after departure. The impact destroyed buildings housing doctors and their families, with many residents also among the casualties.
Emergency services continue to search through the wreckage, while hospitals treat dozens of injured medical students and residents. The Federation of All India Medical Association reported that 50 to 60 medical students were hospitalized, with several in critical condition.
Boeing, the aircraft manufacturer, has pledged full cooperation with Air India and authorities investigating the crash. Flight operations at Ahmedabad airport have since resumed under strict safety protocols.
