The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has established a 12-member Aircraft Accident Investigation Board to investigate the crash of its ATR 42 NAF 931 aircraft in Igbokoda, Ondo State. The board's mandate is to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident, identify its causes, and recommend measures to prevent similar occurrences. This was announced by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
Air Vice Marshal FO Ankeli has been appointed as the president of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Board, while Air Vice Marshal EOE Ebiowe, who heads the Investigation and Recovery Team, will coordinate the broader response. The 12-member board comprises personnel with specialised expertise in aviation operations, flight safety, piloting, air traffic control, aircraft engineering, maintenance, medical services, and other relevant technical fields.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau have representatives on the board to provide additional civilian aviation expertise. The investigation will examine operational, technical, environmental, human, and organisational factors that may have contributed to the crash. Investigators will systematically examine, document, and preserve relevant evidence to establish the facts and determine both the immediate and underlying causes of the accident.
The inquiry will also assess the emergency response to the incident, including search and rescue operations, medical assistance, recovery efforts, and the management of the crash site. The board will make evidence-based recommendations to address any identified shortcomings, strengthen aviation safety, and minimise the risk of similar accidents in the future.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has directed that search and recovery operations be sustained alongside a comprehensive investigation into the incident. A dedicated helpline has been established at the NAF headquarters, under the Office of the Directorate of Veterans Affairs, to provide information and clarification to the next of kin of those who died in the crash.
Administrative arrangements have been activated, including engagements with the affected families and other support measures. The NAF has pledged to provide appropriate updates as verified information becomes available. However, it has cautioned against drawing premature conclusions about the cause of the crash before the investigation is completed and its findings properly considered.
The Air Force has reiterated that search, recovery, and investigative operations remain a priority, assuring that appropriate safety recommendations arising from the board's findings will be implemented. The NAF will ensure that the investigation is thorough and comprehensive, and that all necessary measures are taken to prevent similar accidents in the future.
Key points
- The Nigerian Air Force has established a 12-member board to investigate the crash of its ATR 42 aircraft in Ondo State.
- The board will examine operational, technical, environmental, human, and organisational factors that may have contributed to the crash.
- The investigation will assess the emergency response to the incident and make recommendations to strengthen aviation safety.
