NAF Chief Directs Strengthened Flight Safety Measures After Aircraft Crash
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has directed strengthened flight safety oversight across the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) following the crash involving its ATR 42-500 aircraft, NAF 931, on October 5, 2026.
The directive was issued on October 14 during a meeting with Branch Chiefs, Air Officers Commanding, Principal Staff Officers and other senior commanders. Aneke stressed the need for strict compliance with established procedures, sustained vigilance and continuous improvement in safety management.
Expressing sorrow over the loss of personnel in the accident, the CAS acknowledged the grief of the bereaved families and the wider NAF community. He emphasised that operational effectiveness must be supported by sound judgement, professional discipline and the highest standards of flight safety.
He directed commanders to strengthen oversight of aircraft airworthiness, maintenance quality assurance, operational procedures and aircrew competence. He also called for proactive safety monitoring, prompt reporting of potential hazards and effective implementation of preventive measures, noting that flight safety is a shared responsibility across all levels of command.
Aneke further highlighted the resources 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 the support of specialist personnel and equipment from relevant agencies.
The Head of the Recovery and Investigation Team, Air Vice Marshal E.O.E. Ebiowe, disclosed that the operation had involved extensive mud excavation and water pumping to gain access to relevant areas of the site.
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 (NSIB), have supported the operation. Additional aircraft components have also been recovered, documented and preserved for investigative purposes.
The investigation board constituted to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash has commenced work, examining available evidence, technical information and relevant records.
The CAS has directed all relevant units and branches to preserve evidence, provide necessary records and cooperate fully with the investigation.
The NAF urged members of the public to refrain from speculation, stressing that the cause of the accident would be determined 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 key priorities.
The statement was signed by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, on October 14, 2026.
NAF Chief Directs Strengthened Flight Safety Measures After Aircraft Crash