Nigeria @66: ACYN Mourns Igbokoda Crash Victims, Calls for System Overhaul
The Association of Christian Youths of Nigeria (ACYN) has used Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary to call for a comprehensive overhaul of the country’s systems, while mourning the victims of the recent Igbokoda air crash in Ondo State.
The National President of ACYN, Pastor Onaolapo Oluwasegun, made the call in his Independence Day message, in which he also paid tribute to Nigeria’s past and present heroes for their sacrifices, courage and contributions to the development of the nation.
Onaolapo said Nigeria’s greatest strength lies in its abundant human and natural resources, stressing that the country must urgently develop and properly harness these resources to achieve sustainable economic growth and improve the standard of living of its citizens.
He called for institutions and policies that would create greater opportunities for Nigerians, particularly youths, through quality education, skills development, entrepreneurship, employment and meaningful participation in governance.
According to him, empowering the younger generation remains critical to restoring hope, reducing frustration and building a stronger and more prosperous nation.
The ACYN president also expressed deep grief over the Igbokoda air crash in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, which he described as a devastating national tragedy.
He commiserated with the Federal Government, Ondo State Government, Nigerian Air Force, Ilaje Local Government, families of the deceased and the people of Nigeria over the loss of lives in the crash.
Onaolapo described the deceased personnel as men and women who dedicated themselves to the protection and service of the nation, saying their deaths represented a painful loss to their families, colleagues and the country.
He said the sacrifices of the fallen personnel must not be forgotten, noting that they paid the ultimate price in the service of their fatherland.
The ACYN president also commended the Nigerian Air Force, security agencies, emergency responders, local authorities and residents of Igbokoda and Ilaje for their efforts during the search, recovery and emergency response operations.
He, however, urged the Federal Government and relevant aviation authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
He said the causes and contributing factors must be established and necessary safety measures implemented to prevent a recurrence.
While sympathising with the bereaved families, Onaolapo said the government should sustain all necessary support for those affected by the tragedy, noting that the loss had created painful and irreplaceable vacuums in many families.
The ACYN national president also called on Nigerians to remain united and patriotic, stressing that nation-building requires the collective contributions of government, religious leaders, youths, professionals and citizens across all sectors.
He commended the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for steps taken under the Renewed Hope Agenda to address some of the challenges confronting the country, while urging governments at all levels to continue listening to the concerns of citizens and implement policies capable of bringing tangible relief to the people.
Onaolapo congratulated Nigerians on the 66th Independence Anniversary and prayed for peace, unity, security, prosperity and sustainable development across the country.
He urged Nigerians, especially youths, to remain hopeful and committed to building a nation that future generations would be proud to inherit, while praying for the repose of the souls of the crash victims and comfort for their families and colleagues.
Signed:
Pastor Onaolapo Oluwasegun
National President, Association of Christian Youths of Nigeria (ACYN)
