Air India: Nigeria Condoles With India After Fatal Air India Crash in Ahmedabad

June 13, 2025 EMMANUEL ADEBAYO AJIBOLA

Nigeria has expressed deep sorrow following the deadly crash of an Air India flight in Ahmedabad on Thursday. The London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, operating as Flight 171, burst into flames moments after takeoff. The jet ploughed into a residential district, striking a hostel for medical staff and killing at least 265 people, according to Indian authorities. Only one passenger is believed to have survived and was rescued from the debris.

Reacting to the tragedy, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja described the incident as “heartbreaking”. It pledged full support for efforts to uncover the cause of the crash.

Spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa said Nigeria’s High Commission in New Delhi is reviewing passenger records. So far, there are no reports of Nigerian nationals on board. Still, consular assistance remains available for any citizens potentially affected.

In India, emergency crews worked overnight, combing through the wreckage with sniffer dogs. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the crash shocking and has ordered a full investigation.

Nigeria’s government, in its statement, emphasised the urgent need for stronger global aviation safety standards. It called for a transparent probe to help prevent similar disasters in the future.

As India mourns the victims, Nigeria stands in solidarity, offering sympathy and support in the face of the devastating loss.