The Nigerian Air Force has released the names of the 25 people killed in the crash involving its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, in Ondo State.
The aircraft crashed in the Igbokoda area of the state while on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos.
The Nigerian Air Force said the aircraft had five crew members and 20 passengers on board. Search-and-rescue operations were activated immediately after the accident in coordination with relevant authorities, but no survivors were found.
The five crew members who died were Squadron Leader MI Aburime, the flight captain; Squadron Leader AP Man-Ugwueje and Flight Lieutenant IS Bako, both co-pilots; Warrant Officer Abubakar A, an aircraft technician; and Corporal Uguru HC, also an aircraft technician.
The 20 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 and Flight Sergeant Mohammed AI.
Others were Sergeant Ani AE, Sergeant Izibenikien SI, Sergeant Alafuka C, Sergeant Mbadugha AN, Lance Corporal Ugwuba FC and Lance Corporal Eledan GE.
The remaining passengers were Mrs Ezeh Nneka, Godstmine Tarabina, Joy Micheal, Sunday Micheal, Ukeme David and Gideon Omotola.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed condolences to the families, colleagues and loved ones of the victims.
Aneke described the accident as a painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the country and assured the bereaved families of the Service’s full support.
He has also directed a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The Air Force said it would provide timely and verified updates as the investigation progresses.
It urged the public to refrain from speculation and the circulation of unverified information and to respect the privacy and dignity of the affected families.
A condolence register has been opened at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force in Abuja for government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies and other well-wishers wishing to pay their respects.
The statement was signed by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, on October 6, 2026.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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