12-member Board Investigate Ondo Aircraft Crash As NSIB Offers Technical Support

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has constituted a 12-member specialist Aircraft Accident Investigation Board to determine the circumstances and causes of the October 5 crash involving its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, at Igbokoda, Ondo State.

The development comes as the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) expressed condolences to the military and families of those affected by the tragedy, offering to provide technical assistance if formally requested by the Air Force.

The NAF said the board would examine the technical, operational, environmental and human factors surrounding the accident and recommend measures to prevent a recurrence.

The Air Force also disclosed that search and recovery operations were being intensified, alongside efforts to provide support for the families of those affected.

The NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame disclosed this in a statement, saying the chief of the air staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, had directed sustained recovery operations and a comprehensive investigation into the incident.

According to him, Air Vice Marshal E.O.E. Ebiowe, head of the investigation and recovery team, is coordinating the wider response, while Air Vice Marshal F.O. Ankeli will serve as president of the investigation board.

The 12-member panel comprises personnel with specialist knowledge 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 provide additional civilian aviation safety expertise.

Ejodame said the multidisciplinary composition of the board was intended to ensure a thorough and objective investigation in line with established aviation safety procedures.

He added that the panel would examine, document and preserve relevant evidence to establish the facts surrounding the crash and identify its immediate and underlying causes.

The investigation will also assess the emergency response, including search and rescue activities, medical assistance, recovery operations and the management of the accident site.

The board is expected to make evidence-based recommendations to address any identified shortcomings and strengthen aviation safety.

The NAF spokesman cautioned against speculation about the cause of the accident before the investigation is concluded and its findings properly assessed.

He said the Air Force remained committed to transparency and accountability while protecting sensitive investigative information and preserving the integrity of the proceedings.

On support for affected families, the NAF said it had activated administrative arrangements at its headquarters and commenced engagements with bereaved relatives.

A dedicated helpline has also been established at the Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, within 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 provide updates as verified information became available, while prioritising recovery efforts, support for affected families and the implementation of appropriate safety recommendations arising from the investigation.