The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified search and recovery operations following the October 5, 2026, accident involving its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, at Igbokoda, Ondo State, while constituting a specialist board to investigate the circumstances and determine the causes of the tragedy.
The Service said the investigation would examine the operational, technical, environmental, human and organisational factors surrounding the accident, with a view to establishing the facts and recommending measures to prevent a recurrence.
The NAF also expressed its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, colleagues and others affected by the incident, assuring them of its commitment to providing support throughout the recovery and investigation processes.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, directed sustained search and recovery operations alongside a comprehensive investigation into the accident.
Air Vice Marshal EOE Ebiowe, Head of the Investigation and Recovery Team, is coordinating the broader response, while Air Vice Marshal FO Ankeli has been appointed President of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Board.
According to the NAF, the arrangement is designed to ensure that search and recovery efforts proceed alongside a structured, independent-minded technical investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The 12-member board comprises specialists with expertise in aviation operations, flight safety, piloting, air traffic control, aircraft engineering, maintenance, medical services and other relevant technical disciplines.
Representatives of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) are also members of the board, providing additional civilian aviation expertise to strengthen the investigation.
The board is mandated to conduct a systematic examination of available evidence, document relevant findings and establish both the immediate and underlying causes of the accident.
Its responsibilities include examining the operational and technical circumstances of the incident, as well as assessing environmental conditions, human factors and organisational issues that may have contributed to the occurrence.
The investigation will also evaluate aspects of the emergency response, including search and rescue activities, medical assistance, recovery operations and the management of the accident site.
The Air Force said the board would develop practical, evidence-based recommendations to address any identified deficiencies, strengthen aviation safety standards and reduce the likelihood of similar incidents in the future.
It added that the process would follow established aviation safety procedures, with particular emphasis on preserving evidence, maintaining the integrity of the investigation and ensuring that conclusions are based on objective technical analysis.
On support for affected families, the NAF disclosed that it had established a dedicated helpline at its headquarters, under the Office of the Directorate of Veterans Affairs, to provide recorded next of kin with timely information and clarification as the process progresses.
The Service also said administrative arrangements had been activated to facilitate meetings with affected families and provide other forms of practical assistance during what it described as a period of profound grief and emotional distress.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency, the NAF acknowledged the public’s legitimate interest in the investigation and pledged to provide updates as verified information becomes available.
However, it cautioned against drawing conclusions about the cause of the accident before the investigation is completed and its findings properly considered.
The Service noted that responsible communication remained essential to protecting sensitive investigative information and safeguarding the integrity of the proceedings.
It assured Nigerians that search, recovery and investigative activities remained a priority under the leadership of the Chief of the Air Staff, adding that appropriate safety recommendations arising from the investigation would be considered for implementation.
The NAF reiterated its commitment to pursuing the process with diligence, compassion, accountability and professionalism while supporting the affected families and establishing the facts surrounding the tragedy.
