By Nkechi Eze
The Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs. Zubaida Umar, has expressed deep sadness over the crash of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 aircraft near Igbokoda in Ondo State, while deploying a technical team to support ongoing search and recovery operations.
According to an official statement from NEMA, Umar activated the agency’s Director of Search and Rescue, Air Commodore Bature Usman, to lead a technical team to the crash location to reinforce the ongoing operations.
The deployment is in addition to NEMA personnel already at the scene, where they are working alongside other emergency responders involved in the search and recovery efforts.
Umar extended her condolences to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the entire Nigerian Air Force family and the families of those affected by the tragic incident.
She described the crash as deeply painful, noting the invaluable sacrifices made by Nigerian Air Force personnel in the service and defence of the nation.
The NEMA DG also commended the prompt activation of search and rescue operations following the crash, reaffirming the agency’s commitment to providing the necessary coordination and operational support throughout the response.
She prayed for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives, comfort for their families and the speedy recovery of any injured persons.
