The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, NSIB, has expressed condolences over the accident involving a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft in Igbokoda area of Ondo State on October 5, 2026.
In a statement signed by its Director General/Chief Executive Officer, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., NSIB said it received reports of the accident, adding that the Nigerian Air Force has confirmed that the aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred.
It said Search and Rescue operations have been activated and are ongoing, in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies.
The Bureau extended its sincere condolences to the Nigerian Air Force, and to the families and colleagues of all those on board.
“Our thoughts are with them, and with the Search and Rescue teams working at the site,” it said.
NSIB said it stands ready to assist the Nigerian Air Force, at its request, with whatever technical support may be required, including deployment of investigators and use of the Bureau’s Flight Safety Laboratory for recovery, readout and analysis of flight recorder data.
It noted that as the occurrence involves a military aircraft, investigative responsibility rests with the Nigerian Air Force, and that the Bureau will provide assistance upon a formal request from the Air Force.
NSIB commended swift activation of Search and Rescue and efforts of first responders at Igbokoda, urging public to rely exclusively on official updates from the Nigerian Air Force on rescue operation and any investigation.
It added that further comment from the Bureau will be issued only as appropriate, and in consultation with the Nigerian Air Force.
