Defense and Security
Ondo NAF Plane Crash: CAS Leads Recovery Efforts in Igbokoda, Assures Probe
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, on Thursday, October 8, 2026, led senior officers of the Nigerian Air Force to Igbokoda, Ondo State, to assess search, recovery and investigation efforts following the crash of NAF ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931.
Aneke, who visited the crash site in Ilaje Local Government Area, expressed deep condolences to the families of personnel and passengers who lost their lives, describing their service and sacrifice to the nation as heroic.
He assured that the Nigerian Air Force is handling the response with professionalism, coordination and diligence.
The Air Chief commended the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Police Force, National Emergency Management Agency, Ondo State Government, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Amotekun Corps, Hi-Tech Construction Company, local authorities, community leaders and volunteers for their support in the ongoing recovery operation.
He also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his guidance and leadership during the challenging period.
According to him, all relevant evidence from the crash site will be secured, documented, preserved and thoroughly examined as part of a professional investigation, warning the public to avoid speculation on the cause of the accident.
Speaking earlier, the Head of the Investigation and Recovery Team, Air Vice Marshal EOE Ebiowe, said recovery efforts are progressing in coordination with aviation, security and emergency-response agencies.
He said the crash site remains secured and recovered items are being properly documented and preserved.
The NAF said it remains committed to completing the recovery operation, unraveling the cause of the crash and supporting affected families.