A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 aircraft, on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos, crashed on Monday in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo. The aircraft, with tail number NGR 931, had 25 passengers and seven crew members on board, bringing the total number of persons aboard to 32. Air Traffic Controllers reportedly lost contact with the aircraft at about 9:13 a.m.
The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Air Force, Hon. Kabiru Usman Alhassan, expressed deep sadness and concern over the incident, urging Nigerians to remain calm and prayerful as rescue and recovery efforts continue. He said his thoughts and prayers were with the passengers, crew members, their families and loved ones at what he described as a difficult moment.
The NAF immediately activated search and rescue operations in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies. The wreckage was subsequently located near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, with emergency personnel and security agencies deployed to the area. Initial official statements did not immediately disclose casualty figures as rescue operations continued.
Hon. Alhassan commended the Nigerian Air Force, security agencies, emergency responders and other personnel involved in the operation for their prompt response. He said their efforts were crucial in the race to locate and assist those on board. He also called on members of the public to avoid panic and allow the relevant authorities to conduct the rescue and recovery operations without interference.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has indicated that, because the aircraft was military-operated, the NAF has responsibility for the investigation under the applicable legal framework, while the bureau has offered technical support if formally invited. The ATR-42 involved in the incident is among aircraft operated by the NAF for maritime patrol and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
According to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, the incident was unfortunate and distressing, particularly as the fate of those on board was initially unknown. The Minister said the government would do everything possible to support the families of the victims and ensure that the cause of the crash is determined.
As investigations and recovery operations proceed, rescue teams are working to determine the extent of damage and casualties. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of Nigeria's military aviation community. The government has promised to take necessary measures to prevent such incidents in the future and provide support to those affected.
Key points
- 32 people were on board the crashed NAF aircraft
- The NAF activated search and rescue operations immediately after the incident
- The cause of the crash is under investigation by the NAF with technical support from NSIB
