The Chief of the Air Workers (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has charged commanders to take care of rigorous oversight of plane airworthiness, upkeep high quality assurance, operational procedures and aircrew competence.
Aneke had additionally known as for proactive safety monitoring, immediate reporting of potential hazards and efficient implementation of safety measures, saying that flight safety stays a shared command duty.
The NAF chief, who made the decision at a gathering he held with Department Chiefs, Air Officers Commanding (AOCs), Principal Workers Officers and different senior commanders in Abuja, mentioned {that a} substantial quantity of assets has already been invested in personnel coaching, plane spares and upkeep assets to assist airworthiness and operational readiness.
Aneke, whereas calling for sustained vigilance, strict adherence to established procedures and steady enchancment in safety administration, additionally known as for strengthened flight safety oversight throughout the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
He reaffirmed the Service’s dedication to personnel safety, skilled requirements and institutional accountability following the tragic accident involving NAF ATR 42-500 plane NAF 931 on 5 October 2026.
NAF Director of Public Relations and Data, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, in a press release, mentioned the NAF chief, whereas expressing profound sorrow over the lack of personnel, acknowledged the grief of the bereaved households and the whole NAF group.
He burdened that operational effectiveness should be underpinned by sound judgement, skilled self-discipline and the best requirements of flight safety.
In the meantime, search and restoration operations on the accident website in Igbokoda, Ondo State, proceed with the involvement of specialist personnel and gear from related companies.
The Head of the Restoration and Investigation Crew, Air Vice Marshal EOE Ebiowe, disclosed that the operation has concerned in depth mud excavation and water pumping to facilitate entry to related areas.
Satellite tv for pc-based search and rescue imagery, the Nigerian Navy’s hydrographic survey staff and divers, in addition to divers from the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), have supported the hassle. Further plane elements have been recovered, documented and preserved for investigative functions.
The constituted investigation board has commenced work to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the accident by way of a scientific examination of accessible proof, technical data and related data.
The CAS has directed all related models and branches to protect proof, present crucial data and cooperate absolutely with the investigation. The NAF urges the general public to keep away from hypothesis, as the reason for the accident can be established by way of the investigative course of.
The Service stays dedicated to supporting affected households and implementing applicable safety suggestions arising from the investigation’s findings, with the safety of personnel and the integrity of future air operations as overriding priorities.
