By Eshioromeh Sebastian
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified search and recovery operations at the crash site of its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, in Igbokoda, Ondo State, while constituting a 12-member Aircraft Accident Investigation Board to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, directed sustained search and recovery efforts alongside a comprehensive investigation into the accident that occurred on 5 October 2026.
“The NAF extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, colleagues and all those affected by this tragedy,” the Service said in a statement signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
Air Vice Marshal EOE Ebiowe, Head of the Investigation and Recovery Team, is coordinating the wider response, while Air Vice Marshal FO Ankeli serves as President of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Board. According to the NAF, “this arrangement ensures a coordinated approach to recovery operations alongside a structured, specialist investigation into the circumstances of the accident.”
The 12-member Board comprises experienced personnel with specialist expertise in aviation operations, flight safety, piloting, air traffic control, aircraft engineering, maintenance, medical services and other relevant technical disciplines. It also includes representatives of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).
“This multidisciplinary composition is intended to support a thorough, objective and credible investigation guided by established aviation safety procedures,” the statement said.
The Board is mandated to examine relevant operational, technical, environmental, human and organisational factors surrounding the accident. “Its work will involve the systematic examination, documentation and preservation of relevant evidence to establish the facts and determine the immediate and underlying causes of the occurrence,” the NAF stated.
The investigation will also assess relevant aspects of the emergency response, including search and rescue, medical response, recovery operations and accident-site management. The Board is expected to make “practical, evidence-based recommendations to address any identified deficiencies, strengthen aviation safety and reduce the likelihood of similar occurrences.”
Support for Bereaved Families
Beyond the operational and investigative response, the NAF said it remains committed to supporting the bereaved families through this difficult period.
“In addition to ongoing engagement with the families, the Service has established a direct help line at Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, within the Office of the Directorate of Veterans Affairs, to facilitate access to timely and appropriate information whenever required,” the statement read.
The NAF added that “administrative processes have been activated at Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, including the organisation of meetings with affected families and other support arrangements, to provide timely assistance and practical support during this period of profound grief and emotional distress.”
Public Cautioned Against Speculation
The NAF acknowledged the public’s legitimate interest in the ongoing process but cautioned against premature conclusions.
“While ensuring responsible communication, the Service will protect sensitive investigative information and preserve the integrity of the proceedings. Conclusions regarding the cause of the accident would be premature until the investigation is completed and its findings are duly considered,” it said.
The Service assured the public that “the search, recovery and investigative efforts remain a priority,” adding that under the leadership of the Chief of the Air Staff, it remains committed to “establishing the facts surrounding this tragic incident, supporting the affected families and implementing appropriate safety recommendations arising from the investigation.”
“The NAF will continue to approach the process with diligence, compassion, accountability and professional responsibility, mindful of the profound loss suffered by the families and the wider Service,” the statement concluded.
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