The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has ordered an investigation into the crash of a NAF ATR-42 aircraft near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin City to Lagos when the mishap occurred, with military personnel and some family members on board.
A statement by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, described the incident as a painful loss to the Armed Forces and the nation, noting that military personnel continue to make sacrifices daily in the service of the country.
READ ALSO: Defence Minister Mourns Victims of NAF 931 Crash
He said, “In compliance with the directive of the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, an investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the accident”.
According to the statement, Search and Rescue operations by the NAF, in collaboration with sister Services and emergency agencies, are continuing at the crash site.
The Defence Headquarters assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces would remain resolute in fulfilling its constitutional mandate of securing the nation despite the setback.
It also appealed to members of the public to refrain from speculation and respect the privacy of the affected families while official procedures and investigations continue.
“May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace, and may God grant their families the strength to bear this profound loss,” he said.
Defence Minister General Christopher Musa (rtd.) has expressed deep sorrow over the crash of military aircraft NAF 931, which claimed the lives of officers and airmen of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and civilians on board.
Musa described the incident as a tragic loss and extended condolences to the families of the deceased. He said a comprehensive investigation had been ordered to determine the cause of the crash and strengthen operational safety protocols across military aviation units.
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— Voice of Nigeria (@voiceofnigeria) October 6, 2026
