Mr Attahiru was appointed chief of army staff on January 26, succeeding Tukur Buratai. He was 54.
Other military chiefs who were on the same flight were also killed by the place crash, sources said.
The presidency has already been briefed about the development.
The Nigerian Air Force has now issued a statement confirming that there was a crash, but did not immediately say the personalities onboard.
“An air crash involving a Nigerian Air Force aircraft occurred this evening near the Kaduna International Airport. The immediate cause of the crash is still being ascertained. More details to follow soon,” spokesman Edward Gabkwet said.
Spokesperson of the Nigerian Army Yerima Mohammed confirmed the death of Attahiru to newsmen.
The plane was the third military jet operated by the Nigerian Air Force to crash this year.
More Details shortly…
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