The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has constituted a 12-member Aircraft Accident Investigation Board to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash of its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
The aircraft crashed on October 5, 2026, killing all occupants on board.
The NAF announced the constitution of the board in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
According to the statement, the board will investigate the causes of the crash and recommend measures to prevent similar accidents.
Air Vice Marshal FO Ankeli will head the board, while Air Vice Marshal EOE Ebiowe, who leads the Investigation and Recovery Team, will coordinate the broader response.
The board comprises aviation specialists with expertise in flight safety, piloting, air traffic control, aircraft engineering, maintenance and medical services. Representatives of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau are also members.
The Air Force said the investigation would examine operational, technical, environmental, human and organisational factors that may have contributed to the accident.
It added that the board would preserve and analyse relevant evidence, assess the emergency response and review search-and-rescue operations, medical assistance and the management of the crash site.
The NAF said the findings would guide evidence-based recommendations to strengthen aviation safety and address any identified shortcomings.
The Service also disclosed that it had established a dedicated helpline within the Office of the Directorate of Veterans Affairs at its headquarters to provide information and clarification to the recorded next of kin of the deceased.
It said arrangements had also been made to engage affected families and provide other necessary support.
The Air Force cautioned against speculation over the cause of the crash, stressing that conclusions would be premature until the investigation was completed and its findings reviewed.
