It was an emotional moment yesterday when the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Baba Abubakar, paid a condolence visit to the family of the Nigerian AIr Force pilot, Squadron Leader (Sqn Ldr) Mohammed Bello Baba-Ari, killed in last Friday’s crash in Abuja.
Recall that while the Nigerian Air Force were practicing for the Independence day celebration, two aircrafts collided in the air and crashed in the Katempe area of Abuja.
The father of the deceased, Alhaji Abu Baba-Ari, and mother of the deceased pilot broke down in tears during the visit.
The Chief of Staff described late Baba-Ari as an intelligent, articulate, hardworking, resourceful and dedicated officer who was well liked and respected by his peers, subordinates and superiors alike. He stated that Baba-Ari had distinguished himself as an outstanding combat pilot who had made tangible contributions in the counter terrorism operations in the North East.
He urged the family to take solace in the fact that their son was a hero, who had made the supreme sacrifice in service to the nation. He prayed that God would continue to comfort the entire family. Prayers were also offered for the peaceful repose of the deceased NAF pilot’s soul.
The CAS also later undertook a follow up visit to the Defence Intelligence Agency Medical Centre to check on the 2 surviving pilots, who are recuperating extremely well.
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