The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has expressed condolences to the Nigerian Air Force following the crash of an ATR-42 military aircraft in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State, offering to provide technical assistance if formally requested.
The Bureau, in a statement signed by its Director General/Chief Executive Officer, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., confirmed that it received reports of the accident involving the Nigerian Air Force aircraft on Monday, October 5, 2026.
According to the NSIB, the Nigerian Air Force has confirmed that the aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred, while search and rescue operations have been activated and are ongoing in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies.
The Bureau extended its condolences to the Nigerian Air Force and the families and colleagues of those on board, while commending the search and rescue teams and first responders working at the accident site.
The NSIB said it stands ready to assist the Air Force, if invited, with technical support that could include the deployment of investigators and the use of its Flight Safety Laboratory for the recovery, readout and analysis of flight recorder data.
However, the Bureau clarified that because the accident involves a military aircraft, investigative responsibility rests with the Nigerian Air Force.
“The Bureau will provide assistance upon a formal request from the Air Force,” the statement said.
The NSIB also urged members of the public to rely exclusively on official updates from the Nigerian Air Force concerning the rescue operation and any investigation into the accident.
It said further comments from the Bureau would be issued only as appropriate and in consultation with the Nigerian Air Force.
