The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB),said it has received reports of an accident involving a Nigerian Air Force(NAF) ATR-42 aircraft in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State today, October 5, 2026,and that it is ready to render Technical Support in the investigation if Invited.
NSIB said that NAF has confirmed that the aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred, and that Search and Rescue operations have been activated and are ongoing, in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies.
A statement signed by Director General / Chief Executive Officer, NSIB,
Capt. Alex Badeh Jr. , informed that the
Bureau extends its sincere condolences to the NAF, and to the families and colleagues of all those on board. Our thoughts are with them, and with the Search and Rescue teams working at the site.
The NSIB, the statement said stands ready to assist the NAF, at its request, with whatever technical support may be required. That support can include the deployment of investigators and the use of the Bureau’s Flight Safety Laboratory for the recovery, readout and analysis of flight recorder data.
As this occurrence involves a military aircraft, investigative responsibility rests with the NAF.
The Bureau will provide assistance upon a formal request from the Air Force and commended the swift activation of Search and Rescue(SARS) and the efforts of first responders at Igbokoda.
NSIB urged the public to rely exclusively on official updates from the NAF on the rescue operation and on any investigation.
Further comment from the Bureau, the statement said will be issued only as appropriate, and in consultation with the NAF.
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