The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has established a 12-member Aircraft Accident Investigation Board to determine the circumstances and causes of the October 5 crash involving its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
The development comes as the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) extended its condolences to the military and families affected by the incident, while offering technical assistance should the Air Force formally request it.
In a statement, NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame said the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, had directed sustained search and recovery operations alongside a comprehensive investigation into the crash.
The board is expected to examine the technical, operational, environmental and human factors surrounding the accident and recommend measures to prevent similar incidents.
According to Ejodame, Air Vice Marshal E.O.E. Ebiowe, who heads the investigation and recovery team, is coordinating the overall response, while Air Vice Marshal F.O. Ankeli will lead the investigation board.
The 12-member panel comprises specialists in aviation operations, flight safety, piloting, air traffic control, aircraft engineering, maintenance and medical services. Representatives of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the NSIB are also included to contribute civilian aviation safety expertise.
Ejodame said the board’s multidisciplinary composition would support a thorough and objective investigation in line with established aviation safety procedures.
He explained that investigators would identify, document and preserve relevant evidence to establish the facts surrounding the crash and determine its immediate and underlying causes.
The investigation will also assess the emergency response, including search and rescue operations, medical assistance, recovery efforts and the management of the accident site.
The board is expected to make evidence-based recommendations to address any identified shortcomings and improve aviation safety.
The Air Force spokesperson urged the public to avoid speculating about the cause of the crash until the investigation is completed and its findings properly evaluated.
He added that the NAF remained committed to transparency and accountability while safeguarding sensitive investigative information and maintaining the integrity of the process.
On support for affected families, the Air Force said it had activated administrative arrangements at its headquarters and begun engagements with bereaved relatives.
A dedicated helpline has also been established at the Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, under the Office of the Directorate of Veterans Affairs, to provide recorded next of kin with information and clarification.
The NAF said it would continue to release verified updates as they become available, while prioritising recovery operations, assistance to affected families and the implementation of safety recommendations arising from the investigation.
