President John Mahama has expressed deep sorrow following the deaths of eight individuals in Wednesday’s military helicopter crash, describing the tragedy as a national loss that has touched every Ghanaian.

Speaking at the Jubilee House on Thursday, August 7, he paid tribute to the victims, who included Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, and several other high-ranking officials and military personnel.

“Our nation is grieving,” the president said. “On behalf of the government and the people of Ghana, I extend my deepest condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones. Know that our entire country mourns with you. We share your pain. Your loss is our loss.”

President Mahama praised the victims as “dedicated public servants, intellectuals, and individuals who tirelessly worked for a better Ghana.”

He added that their final moments, spent in service, exemplified their commitment to the country’s progress.

“This is a moment of shared heartbreak, a time to reflect on the preciousness of life, the sacrifices of public service, and our gratitude for those who dedicate themselves to the well-being of Ghana,” he said.

The eight died when a Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter went down in the Adansi area of the Ashanti Region.