By Emmanuel Thomas I Monday, Oct 05, 2026
A Nigerian Air Force aircraft carrying 32 persons crashed earlier today in the swampy region of Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, shortly after losing contact with air traffic control.
The aircraft, bearing tail number NGR 931, was en route to Lagos from Benin when it disappeared from radar screens at approximately 0913 hours. Efforts by Air Traffic Controllers to establish radio contact with the flight proved abortive before the tragic crash was confirmed near the local Naval Base.
Confirming the incident, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Technology, Festus Keyamo, SAN, revealed that preliminary reports indicate there were 25 passengers and 7 crew members aboard the ill-fated flight.
”Whilst the control and regulation of military aircraft are completely outside the authority of the Ministry of Aviation and the Civil Aviation Authority, I have just spoken to the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and pledged our total cooperation and assistance in the search and rescue efforts ongoing,” Keyamo stated.
Video footage from the scene shows the severely damaged wreckage submerged in the marshy terrain of Igbokoda. Joint rescue personnel, emergency responders, and military officers have been deployed to the site to navigate the difficult terrain and search for survivors.
As of press time, military authorities have not officially confirmed the condition of those onboard or the exact casualty count. Further updates will be provided as search and rescue operations progress.
