The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed the death of all 25 people aboard its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, which crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on Tuesday, October 6, 2026.
The aircraft, which was on a routine flight from Benin to Lagos, had five crew members and 20 passengers on board.
Following the crash, search-and-rescue teams were mobilised alongside relevant authorities to locate those aboard the aircraft. Unfortunately, no survivor was found.
Air Force Chief Reacts to Tragedy
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, described the incident as “a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the nation”.
He extended his condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the victims and assured the bereaved families that the Nigerian Air Force would provide support during the difficult period.
The statement was signed by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, and released through the Nigerian Air Force’s official communication channel on Tuesday.
Names of NAF 931 Crew Members
The five crew members who lost their lives in the crash were:
- Squadron Leader MI Aburime – Flight Captain
- Squadron Leader AP Man-Ugwueje – Co-pilot
- Flight Lieutenant IS Bako – Co-pilot
- Warrant Officer Abubakar A – Aircraft Technician
- Corporal Uguru HC – Aircraft Technician
Passengers Killed in the Crash
The 20 passengers aboard the aircraft included military personnel and civilians.
The military personnel identified were:
- Flight Lieutenant TL Lazarus
- Flight Lieutenant M Akinloye
- Flying Officer IM Adeshina
- Master Warrant Officer Onwuka F
- Master Warrant Officer Matini BA
- Warrant Officer Nuhu FS
- Flight Sergeant James RB
- Flight Sergeant Mohammed AI
- Sergeant Ani AE
- Sergeant Izibenikien SI
- Sergeant Alafuka C
- Sergeant Mbadugha AN
- Lance Corporal Ugwuba FC
- Lance Corporal Eledan GE
Six civilians were also listed among the passengers who died:
- Mrs Ezeh Nneka
- Godstmine Tarabina
- Joy Micheal
- Sunday Micheal
- Ukeme David
- Gideon Omotola
Investigation Ordered Into Crash
Air Marshal Aneke has ordered a full investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the aircraft’s crash.
The Nigerian Air Force said verified information would be made available as the investigation progresses. It also appealed to the public to avoid circulating unconfirmed reports or information that could further distress the affected families.
Condolence Register Opened in Abuja
As the nation mourns the victims, a condolence register has been opened at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force in Abuja.
Senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies and other well-wishers have been invited to sign the register and leave messages of sympathy for the families of those who died.
