NAF Intensifies Search for Victims of Igbokoda Aircraft Crash, Sets Up Investigation Board
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified search and recovery operations following the crash of its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, at Igbokoda in Ondo State on October 5, 2026.
The Service has also constituted a 12-member Aircraft Accident Investigation Board to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident, identify its causes and recommend measures to prevent similar accidents in the future.
In a statement, the NAF said the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, had directed sustained search and recovery operations alongside a comprehensive investigation into the tragedy.
Air Vice Marshal EOE Ebiowe, Head of the Investigation and Recovery Team, is coordinating the overall response, while Air Vice Marshal FO Ankeli serves as President of the investigation board.
The board comprises specialists in aviation operations, flight safety, piloting, air traffic control, aircraft engineering, maintenance, medical services and other technical fields. Representatives of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) are also members.
According to the NAF, the board will examine operational, technical, environmental, human and organisational factors that may have contributed to the accident.
Its responsibilities include gathering, examining and preserving relevant evidence to establish the facts surrounding the incident and determine both its immediate and underlying causes.
The investigation will also assess the emergency response, including search and rescue activities, medical assistance, recovery operations and the management of the accident site.
The board is expected to submit evidence-based recommendations aimed at addressing any identified shortcomings, strengthening aviation safety and preventing a recurrence.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Air Force has expressed condolences to the families of those affected by the tragedy, assuring them of continued support during the difficult period.
The Service disclosed that it had established a dedicated helpline at its headquarters, within the Office of the Directorate of Veterans Affairs, to provide recorded next of kin with timely information and clarification.
It added that administrative arrangements, including meetings with affected families and other support measures, had been initiated to provide assistance during their period of grief.
The NAF acknowledged the public’s interest in the incident and promised to provide updates as verified information becomes available.
However, it cautioned against drawing conclusions about the cause of the crash before the investigation is completed and the findings are properly reviewed.
The Service reaffirmed that search and recovery operations, the investigation and support for affected families remain priorities under the leadership of the Chief of the Air Staff.
It also pledged to implement appropriate safety recommendations arising from the investigation, stressing its commitment to accountability, professionalism and aviation safety.
