NAF has confirmed that an ATR-42 aircraft crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo State, during a routine mission from Benin to Lagos.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that the aircraft which crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on Monday belongs to the service, saying it was on a routine mission from Benin, Edo State, to Lagos when the accident occurred.
NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the aircraft, an ATR-42, was involved in an accident in Igbokoda on October 5, 2026, prompting the immediate activation of a search and rescue operation in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies.
“The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has activated an immediate Search and Rescue operation following an ATR-42 aircraft accident in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on 5 October 2026,” Ejodame said in a statement.
“The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred. Search and Rescue operations, in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies, are currently ongoing.”
NAF Yet To Confirm Passengers Or Casualties
The Air Force did not disclose the number of people on board or provide information on casualties, saying further details would be communicated as the search and rescue operation progresses.
“The NAF is committed to ensuring the success of the ongoing Search and Rescue efforts. Further details will be communicated in due course,” Ejodame added.
The confirmation comes after reports emerged earlier on Monday that an aircraft had crashed in the coastal community of Igbokoda, the headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Aircraft Crashed In Swampy Terrain Near Naval Base
The Ondo State Police Command had earlier confirmed the incident, but said authorities were still working to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash and urged residents to remain calm while warning against the circulation of unverified information.
Residents told TheCable that the aircraft came down in a swampy area opposite a naval base in Igbokoda, with security personnel and other relevant authorities moving to the area following the incident.
The aircraft is understood to be used for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), as well as air maritime operations.
The nature of the mission and the circumstances that led to the crash have not been disclosed by the Air Force.
Search And Rescue Operation Continues
The NAF said the ongoing operation is being conducted alongside relevant authorities and emergency response agencies as efforts continue at the crash site.
The Air Force has not yet released information on the identities or condition of those who may have been on board.
Further details on the cause of the accident, the number of occupants and any casualties are expected as the search and rescue operation progresses.
