President Muhammadu Buhari has thanked God and also praised “the tenacious spirit of Vice President Osinbajo,” who survived a helicopter crash in Kogi State on Saturday.

According to a statement by the President’s spokesman, Malam Garba Shehu, in Abuja on Sunday, the President stated this while reacting to Saturday’s incident in a telephone call to Osinbajo.

The President said: “We give glory to Almighty God for sparing your life. I’m impressed by your tenacious spirit which enabled you to continue on your campaign engagement, despite the shock of the crash.

“It takes tenacious spirit and amazing spiritual strength to survive a helicopter crash without being paralysed by its impact.

“I’m proud of our partnership and your unalloyed loyalty and your commitment to the service of Nigeria.

“That you proceeded with your engagements, despite the accident, is a testimony of your passion for service to country and a reflection of your admirable spiritual fervour.

“May God continue to protect you and all those on board with you, bless your lives and grant you more good health and long life to serve our country even more.’’

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the vice-president and nine others had on Saturday escaped unhurt when a hired helicopter conveying them to Kabba, Kogi State, crash-landed.

The vice-president has been receiving solidarity messages from within and outside the country since the incident occurred.

Osinbajo, at a Thanksgiving Service in Lokoja, had said that no amount of thanksgiving and praises to God would be enough for saving his life and nine others in Saturday’s helicopter crash.

The General Manager, Public Relations, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Mr Sam Adurogboye, on Sunday said the authority has commenced investigation into the incident.

Adurogboye, who confirmed this development to NAN, said the investigation was being conducted by the Accident Investigations Bureau (AIB).