The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has constituted a 12-member Aircraft Accident Investigation Board to determine the cause of the October 5 crash involving its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, at Igbokoda, Ondo State, as search and recovery operations intensify.
The NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, saying Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, had directed sustained recovery efforts and a comprehensive investigation into the accident.
The Board, headed by Air Vice Marshal FO Ankeli, comprises specialists in aviation operations, flight safety, piloting, air traffic control, aircraft engineering, maintenance and medical services. Representatives of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau are also members.
According to the NAF, the Board will examine operational, technical, environmental, human and organisational factors surrounding the crash, preserve relevant evidence and investigate the emergency response, including search and rescue, medical assistance and accident-site management. It is expected to recommend measures to strengthen aviation safety and prevent a recurrence.
The Service said the investigation would be conducted in line with established aviation safety procedures, warning that conclusions about the cause of the crash would be premature until the process is completed.
It also expressed condolences to the bereaved families and said arrangements had been made to provide them with information and support, including a dedicated helpline at the NAF headquarters.
The Air Force assured the public that the search, recovery and investigation remained priorities, pledging to provide updates as verified information becomes available.
