NAF Strengthens Flight Safety Oversight After Fatal NAF 931 Crash
CAS orders stricter aircraft maintenance checks, operational compliance as search and recovery operations continue in Ondo
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has ordered stricter flight safety oversight across the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) following the fatal accident involving its ATR 42-500 aircraft, NAF 931, on October 5, 2026.
Aneke issued the directive on Wednesday, October 14, during a meeting with Branch Chiefs, Air Officers Commanding, Principal Staff Officers and other senior commanders, stressing the need for strict compliance with safety procedures, professional standards and continuous improvement in aviation safety management.
The directive comes as search and recovery operations continue at the accident site in Igbokoda, Ondo State, while an investigation board works to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Expressing deep sorrow over the loss of personnel, the CAS extended his concern to the bereaved families and the wider NAF community, emphasising that operational effectiveness must be anchored in sound judgement, professional discipline and the highest standards of flight safety.
He consequently directed commanders to strengthen oversight of aircraft airworthiness, maintenance quality assurance, operational procedures and aircrew competence.
Aneke also called for proactive safety monitoring, prompt reporting of potential hazards and effective implementation of preventive measures, noting that flight safety remained a shared responsibility across the command structure.
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He further highlighted the substantial resources invested in personnel training, aircraft spare parts and maintenance to sustain airworthiness and operational readiness.
Meanwhile, recovery efforts at the Igbokoda crash site have involved specialist personnel and equipment from relevant agencies, with operations requiring extensive mud excavation and water pumping to gain access to critical areas.
The Head of the Recovery and Investigation Team, Air Vice Marshal EOE Ebiowe, disclosed that 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), had supported the operation.
He added that additional aircraft components had been recovered, documented and preserved for investigative purposes.
The constituted investigation board has commenced work, undertaking a systematic examination of available evidence, technical information and relevant records to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident.
To support the process, the CAS has directed all relevant units and branches to preserve evidence, provide necessary documentation and cooperate fully with investigators.
The NAF urged members of the public to refrain from speculation, assuring that the cause of the accident would be established through the investigation.
The Service also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting affected families and implementing appropriate safety recommendations arising from the investigation’s findings.
It said the protection of personnel and the integrity of future air operations remained overriding priorities.
The statement was signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, on October 14, 2026.
