President Bola Tinubu has expressed profound sadness over the crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State, on Monday morning.
According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred.
President Tinubu extended his deepest condolences to the families of the 25 passengers and seven crew members involved in the crash, as well as to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and officers, airmen and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force.
“This is a painful moment for our Armed Forces and for the entire nation. Our Air Force personnel put their lives on the line every day to secure Nigeria. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” the President said.
Tinubu disclosed that the Chief of the Air Staff had briefed him on the incident and said he had directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash.
He said the investigation was necessary to determine what led to the accident and help prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The President also commended the Nigerian Air Force for promptly activating a search-and-rescue operation following the crash.
“I pray for the repose of the souls of the gallant officers and for Almighty God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the fortitude to bear this unfortunate loss,” he said.
President Tinubu assured the Nigerian Air Force of the continued support of his administration as it carries out its responsibilities in securing the nation.
He also commended the swift response of first responders and the Ondo State Government at the crash site.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
October 5, 2026
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