By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced plans to hold a memorial service and wreath-laying ceremony on November 26, 2026, in honour of victims of the NAF 931 aircraft accident at Igbokoda, Ondo State.
The solemn ceremony, scheduled to take place at the National Military Cemetery, Abuja, will provide an opportunity for bereaved families, colleagues, friends and members of the Nigerian Air Force community to pay their last respects to the departed personnel and honour their service and sacrifice.
According to an official statement signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the ceremony will also serve as a formal expression of the Service’s enduring respect and remembrance for those who lost their lives in the October 5, 2026 aircraft accident.
The announcement comes as the NAF confirmed the recovery of the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR), alongside other aircraft fragments and relevant evidence, from the crash site in Igbokoda.
The Service disclosed that data retrieved from the voice recorder was being analysed and was expected to contribute significantly to the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident.
It added that the investigation was progressing in collaboration with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), with the NAF pledging to ensure that the process meets the highest standards of professionalism, transparency and accountability.
The recovery operation, according to the statement, has yielded several human remains and aircraft fragments, while the identification of recovered remains is ongoing.
The Air Force explained that the operation had been particularly challenging due to the swampy nature of the terrain and the depth to which some aircraft wreckage had penetrated the ground.
It also disclosed that it was engaging relevant agencies to address environmental concerns arising from the recovery exercise and ensure appropriate remediation after the operation.
Reaffirming its commitment to the welfare of affected families, the NAF said it recognised the profound grief experienced by the bereaved and would continue to provide them with sustained support throughout the difficult period.
The Service also appreciated the cooperation of relevant agencies, host communities and other stakeholders who had supported the recovery and investigation efforts.
It assured Nigerians that it remained committed to a thorough investigation, responsible environmental management and the dignified remembrance of all those who lost their lives in the unfortunate incident.
