The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has directed stricter flight safety oversight across the Nigerian Air Force following the crash involving its ATR 42-500 aircraft, NAF 931, on October 5, 2026.
The directive was issued on Wednesday, October 14, during a meeting with Branch Chiefs, Air Officers Commanding and other senior commanders, where the Air Chief stressed the need for strict compliance with established procedures, professional discipline and continuous improvement in safety management.
Air Marshal Aneke expressed deep sorrow over the loss of personnel in the accident and extended his condolences to the bereaved families and the entire Nigerian Air Force community.
He directed commanders to strengthen oversight of aircraft airworthiness, maintenance quality assurance, operational procedures and aircrew competence.
The CAS also emphasised proactive safety monitoring, prompt reporting of potential hazards and the effective implementation of safety measures, noting that flight safety remains a collective command responsibility.
He added that significant resources had been invested in personnel training, aircraft spare parts and maintenance to sustain airworthiness and operational readiness.
Meanwhile, search and recovery operations at the accident site in Igbokoda, Ondo State, are continuing with support from specialist personnel and equipment from relevant agencies.
The Head of the Recovery and Investigation Team, Air Vice Marshal E.O.E. Ebiowe, said the operation had involved extensive mud excavation and water pumping to gain access to relevant areas.
Satellite-based search and rescue imagery, the Nigerian Navy’s hydrographic survey team and divers, as well as divers from the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, have also supported the recovery efforts.
Additional aircraft components have been recovered, documented and preserved as part of the ongoing investigation.
The constituted investigation board has commenced work to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident through a systematic examination of available evidence, technical information and relevant records.
Air Marshal Aneke has directed all concerned units and branches to preserve evidence, provide necessary documentation and cooperate fully with the investigation.
The Nigerian Air Force has urged the public to refrain from speculation, stressing that the cause of the accident will be established through the investigative process.
The Service reaffirmed its commitment to supporting affected families and implementing appropriate safety recommendations arising from the investigation, with personnel protection and the safety of future air operations remaining top priorities.
