The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has released the names of the 25 personnel and passengers who died in the crash involving its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed condolences to the families, colleagues and loved ones of the victims, describing the incident as a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the country.
The statement was signed by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, on Tuesday said NAF 931, which had five crew members and 20 passengers on board, was reportedly on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred.
The Air Force said search-and-rescue operations were immediately activated in coordination with relevant authorities. However, it confirmed that no survivors have been found.
The statement was signed by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, on October 6, 2026.
The deceased crew members were identified as:
- Squadron Leader MI Aburime – Flight Captain
- Squadron Leader AP Man-Ugwueje – Co-pilot
- Flight Lieutenant IS Bako – Co-pilot
- Warrant Officer Abubakar A – Aircraft Technician
- Corporal Uguru HC – Aircraft Technician
The passengers were:
- Flight Lieutenant TL Lazarus
- Flight Lieutenant M Akinloye
- Flying Officer IM Adeshina
- Master Warrant Officer Onwuka F
- Master Warrant Officer Matini BA
- Warrant Officer Nuhu FS
- Flight Sergeant James RB
- Flight Sergeant Mohammed AI
- Sergeant Ani AE
- Sergeant Izibenikien SI
- Sergeant Alafuka C
- Sergeant Mbadugha AN
- Lance Corporal Ugwuba FC
- Lance Corporal Eledan GE
- Mrs Ezeh Nneka
- Godstmine Tarabina
- Joy Micheal
- Sunday Micheal
- Ukeme David
- Gideon Omotola
Air Marshal Aneke has directed a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The NAF said it would provide timely and verified updates as the investigation progresses, while urging the public to avoid speculation and the circulation of unverified information.
The Service also appealed for respect for the privacy and dignity of the bereaved families.
Meanwhile, a condolence register has been opened at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force in Abuja for senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies and other well-wishers wishing to pay their respects and sympathise with the families of the deceased and the Nigerian Air Force.
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