The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed the death of all 25 people aboard an ATR 42 aircraft that crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The aircraft, identified as NAF 931, was flying from Benin to Lagos on a routine mission when the accident occurred.
The NAF said the aircraft had five crew members and 20 passengers on board. Search-and-rescue operations were launched immediately after the incident in collaboration with relevant authorities, but no survivor was found.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed condolences to the families and colleagues of the victims, describing the crash as a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the nation.
The five crew members who died were identified as 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; and Corporal Uguru HC, Aircraft Technician.
The 20 passengers were identified as 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, Mrs Ezeh Nneka, Godstmine Tarabina, Joy Micheal, Sunday Micheal, Ukeme David and Gideon Omotola.
Aneke has directed a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The Air Force said it would continue to provide timely and verified information as the investigation progresses, while warning against the spread of speculation and unverified reports.
It also appealed to the public to respect the privacy and dignity of the bereaved families.
Meanwhile, a condolence register has been opened at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja for government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies and other well-wishers wishing to pay their respects.
The statement was signed by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, on Tuesday, October 6, 2026.