The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has led senior Nigerian Air Force (NAF) officials to Igbokoda, Ondo State, to assess ongoing search, recovery and investigative efforts following the accident involving a NAF ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931.
Aneke, who visited the accident site on Thursday, October 8, 2026, expressed condolences to the families of the personnel and passengers who lost their lives, paying tribute to their service, sacrifice and commitment to the nation.
The CAS reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to conducting the recovery and investigation with the highest standards of professionalism, coordination and diligence, while cautioning against speculation over the cause of the accident.
He assured the affected families and the public that all relevant evidence would be secured, documented, preserved and examined as part of a thorough and professional investigation.
Aneke also commended the personnel of the NAF, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy and Nigeria Police Force, as well as the National Emergency Management Agency, Ondo State Government, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, Amotekun Corps, Hi-Tech Construction Company, local authorities, community leaders and volunteers for their support to the ongoing operation.
He equally appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his guidance and leadership during the challenging period.
The Head of the Investigation and Recovery Team, Air Vice Marshal EOE Ebiowe, said recovery efforts were progressing in coordination with relevant aviation, security and emergency-response agencies.
Ebiowe confirmed that the accident site remained secured, while recovered items and other relevant evidence were being properly documented and preserved to support the investigation.
He said the NAF remained focused on completing the recovery operation, supporting a comprehensive investigation and providing appropriate assistance to the affected families.
The Air Force also expressed appreciation to stakeholders and members of the public for their continued support and cooperation as search, recovery and investigation efforts continue at the accident site.
